No, it still has the origional white paint on it and had never been removed. It is also in the parts diagram.
Update: When I shut off the tank selector, the engine starts right up the next time I run it. So, it must be one of the following; the valve is leaking air, a hose is leaking air, or a check valve (if so equiped) is leaking. There is never any gas fumes in the bilge, that's why I think something is leaking air and allowing the "prime" to be lost. Thanks again to all of you for your valuable input. Regards, Bruce...