1988-1995 Mercury Force 5HP Outboards Service Manual, 90-823263 793, Page 80Get this manual
EINSPECTING REEDS NO TE: The earlier style reeds and reed plate are shown throughout this section
REED STOP
Inspect reeds Reeds must lie flat on reed without tension (preload), which would restrict airflowReeds must not stand open more than 0.006 inches, which would allow air to be expelled through carburetorReeds must not be damagedsuch as cracks or chips missing