Choking/Starting a Mariner 135 Marathon

This may sound stupid, but is there a right way or wrong way to use the choke on this engine. I have a hard time starting it -- if it starts at all -- it just cranks and cranks and cranks. I took it in and the mechanic said the choke was clogged. He did some work and then said it "started right up". I took it home and 4 days later I couldn't start it again -- cranks and cranks and cranks. I pump the ball til firm; I give it 1/4 to 1/2 throttle; I push the key in while turning to start -- is that the problem? Should I just hold it in for 2-3 seconds, then release it, then turn it to start? Should I hold it in for 2-3 seconds, and continue to hold it in while turning to start? Should I turn the key to the first (on) position before I push it in for 2-3 seconds, the turn to start? I know this all sounds anal, but I just took it back to the mechanic, and he started it right up. I don't get it.

Re: Choking/Starting a Mariner 135 Marathon

Try opening the throttle wide open and always choking while cranking - my tower needs a lot of gas to get going, and at least 5-7 seconds of cranking when cold. You need to be johnny of the spot with the throttle level and bring it back down to fast idle once she kicks over so it doesn't run away. Might need to tap the choke once or twice to keep a rich mixture for the first few seconds of running.

Is there a kill switch somewhere? It might be engaged.