The Optimax uses the same Merc control cables that have been around for 52 years. So yeah, your MerCommander controls will shift and move the throttle.
BTW, since going to a group 29 battery, I have had no problems with the Optimax starting. My group 29 battery says "965 CCA". The battery I have hooked to my diesel generator at home is much bigger, and says "1475 CCA". It weighs 120 lbs, though. With my twice-rebuilt back, I can't move it without a shop crane, otherwise I would have used it.
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Common Sense is learning from your mistakes. Wisdom is learning from the other guy's mistakes.
Fr. Frank says:
Jesus liked fishing, too. He even walked on water to get to the boat!
Currently without a SeaCraft 
(2) Pompano 12' fishing kayaks
'73 Cobia 18' prototype "Casting Skiff", 70hp Mercury