I have a 2004 Mercury XR6 150 hp outboard.  I am re-carpeting my boat and need to remove the throttle/gearshift lever from the side panel.  Unfortunately I cannot, for the life of me, figure out how to remove that lever.  Any help would be greatly appreciated.  BTW, the boat is a Tracker TV-18 if that helps any.

Should be a nut where it attaches to the box.  Might have to pry a cap off.

I've removed three bolts that attach the throttle assembly to the housing with no results.  Are you saying is that all I have to do is to pry the lever off?

According the documentation that came with my boat (Quicksilver Commander 3000 Classic), the  shift lever has a nut that holds it to the box.  The nut is covered by the throttle advance button.

To remove the button, press the button in and move the throttle forward.  That should make it possible to remove the button and access the nut.

Mike, I know you probably dont want to hear this but a good hammer would most likely get the job done. 

B.L., I tried your suggestion today and it worked like a charm.  I had the lever off within three minutes.  Many thanks, my friend!   

Scott, if B.L.'s idea hadn't worked I was was going to try yours next.   

B.L., I tried your suggestion today and it worked like a charm. I had the lever off within three minutes. Many thanks, my friend!

Scott, if B.L.'s idea hadn't worked I was was going to try yours next.

I ain't good for much...