Dumbest newbie question?

[Soundslikefun]

So, I have a 1963 or 1964 Mercury 65 HP on my 1964 MFG Westfield Custom. I just had it installed, replacing an Evinrude motor. I am VERY new to boating. My question is, what are the two levers for on my controls? On my Evinrude I had one for throttle, one for shifting. On this one, there is one with a large handle that shifts, AND controls throttle. There is a smaller one that appears to control throttle, but doesn't take it wide open like the larger on does.

Can anyone explain proper use?

 

[shimano]

Re: Dumbest newbie question?

the one large lever controls everything, the small lever you lift up is for high idle (warm up)but should be down before shifting.

 

[Soundslikefun]

Re: Dumbest newbie question?

the one large lever controls everything, the small lever you lift up is for high idle (warm up)but should be down before shifting.

Cool. That's easy enough, thanks.

 

[daveswaves]

Re: Dumbest newbie question?

So, I have a 1963 or 1964 Mercury 65 HP on my 1964 MFG Westfield Custom. I just had it installed, replacing an Evinrude motor. I am VERY new to boating. My question is, what are the two levers for on my controls? On my Evinrude I had one for throttle, one for shifting. On this one, there is one with a large handle that shifts, AND controls throttle. There is a smaller one that appears to control throttle, but doesn't take it wide open like the larger on does.

Can anyone explain proper use?

Sure, the small lever should be brought up to the fully up position when starting the engine. It is a warm up lever and you can adjust it to keep the engine running while it warms up. you will not be able to advance the throttle while the lever is up, you will be able to shift into forward or reverse.
Make sure you use the choke when starting, mercs like lots of fuel to get going when they are cold. Once warmed up it will start easily without choke.