Starting in gear?
 

Is there a electrical switch in the shifter mechanism
That controls this? If so is it replaceable?

Just to start, what is the year and model of the boat, what engine, what control do you have, is this a new problem, have you taken the control out and inspected it? Few more details would be helpful. Short answer is yes the switch is replaceable.

Thanks for reply! 1996 236 eagle eliminator with 502mpi. Not sure brand of shifter. Removed some Upolstrury and it appears there r wires going up to shifter. Would there be a model # visible if I took the shifter completely out ? New prob.

Is it a single handle that you squeeze a button to shift out of neutral or two independent levers, one for throttle one for shift.

There should be a neutral safety switch in the shifter.

Looks like a custom two lever. No button neutral lock.

Yes checking switch out

The Neutral Safety Switch is below the top plate.

Cool thank u