Mercury Lynx...(idle problem)

a good friend of mine was recently handed down to him an 86 mercury lynx and he said it runs fine but as it idles it begins to die and runs rough and to keep it running he has to give it a little bit of throttle. anyone have any clue why? i believe it is carbureted

vacuum leak most likely. Check all the hoses.
Check very close...don't ask me how I know....lol.
Also check around the carb. and the intake for leaks there also.

thank you! my friend wants me to look at it for him and i was trying to get some ideas before i did. thanks :)