just wondering is there a universal switch that I can put near the throttle to raise and lower the motor? I have two one at the bow and stern. the switch on the throttle works but only when I'm coming out of the hole to plain out. I've looked on several sites but could not find one maybe I was lokking under the wrong name for this. I have an '84 merc. 150.  

I would check for loose wires and or shorts before I changed the switch out. If it's a sometimes working thing a connector or a roll of black tape might just help.

I'm having the same problem with my trim switch on the controls.  Motor will lower but hard to get to trim up.  My boat dealer has ordered a universial trim swith that mounts behind the steering wheel and looks like a turn signal switch.  I cant hardly wait to get installed.  I'll report on how it works.

Without trying to over simplify things, It's just a single-pole, double throw, on/off switch.  If the one in your throttle handle has failed, replacing the switch should be quick an inexpensive, assuming the switch, and its particular shape, are still available.  I am also making the assumption that your are pretty handy with tools.