Newb question

[Homebrew72]

I just got a 72 fiberform with a mercruiser. This is my first boat, may be a stupid question but gotta ask. How does the throttle work better yet how is it supposed to work? What I have learned so far you have to push the button in the center and push the throttle forward to start the boat. If I put the throttle in neutral the button pops out and the engine sputters and dies. Is this normal or do I have a problem. Sorry for the dumb question any help is greatly appreciated.

 

[achris]

The control box sounds like it's working fine. That button in the centre is called the 'throttle only' button. Pressing that button in disengages the shift cams inthe control box, allying the lever to operate the throttle without shifting gear. If you pull the lever back and the engine stalls, then the idle speed and/or mixtures need adjusting...