no start when hot

[davemarais]

I have a very occasional problem, 3 times in 12 years. When the engine has been up to running temp for several hours of cruising and then shut down it will not restart. First I thought it was the fuel shut off lever, operated by pulling up the stop on the helm. Now I believe it actually restarted because it had cooled down. Any thoughts? Otherwise the engine always starts right up when cold and runs well.
thanks Dave