Throttle linkage

M

Mackaroni

.
Dec 7, 2013
97
O'day 302 Baltimore MD
A matter that was brought up during my survey is that my engine should be able to develop 3400 rpm and it only puts out about 3000. I've noticed that my throttle is not the easiest to move and was wondering if perhaps my throttle linkage was old/bad. Seems stiff.

Considering replacing it but thought I would seek advice here first.
 
Ron20324

Ron20324

.
Jan 22, 2008
8,050
Beneteau 323 Annapolis MD
Is this an inboard diesel? In neutral, not under way? Any engine, disconnect the linkage from the engine and operate it by hand to see what it will do..
 
centerline

centerline

.
Mar 20, 2012
3,983
Cal 34-III, MacGregor 25 Salem, Oregon
it sounds like the cable is bad... if it is stiff, then its likly not pushing/pulling the fuel lever open all the way. it should move easy

and if its not getting full rpm when in neutral, you will be getting even less rpms when in gear.
 
njlarry

njlarry

.
Sep 23, 2009
1,475
O'Day 34-At Last Rock Hall, Md
Was working on my steering yesterday. Had to remove the cables AT the engine and transmission. If you replace the cable be prepared to remove all the "inards" of the pedestal to get to the cotter pin and bracket 1/3 the way down the shaft. Otherwise easy replacement one you get the right length.
 
BarryL

BarryL

.
May 21, 2004
1,068
Jeanneau Sun Odyssey 409 Mt. Sinai, NY
Hey,

A couple of random thoughts:
1. Diesel tachs are not very accurate. Unlike a gas engine, where the electrical firing of the spark plug is used to determine RPM, the diesel uses the alternator. It may be off.

2. Can you get to rated RPM in neutral? If the boat is overpropped the engine make not make rated RPM.

3. It's pretty easy to see if the throttle is opening all the way if you watch the linkage at the engine side. Just open the engine access panel and have an assistant move the throttle. You will see the linkage and you can use your hand to make sure it's all the way open (Wide Open Throttle - WOT).

4. You can spray a lubricant at both ends of the throttle cable and that usually makes it easier to move. Some throttle controls have a 'brake' to add tension so that the lever stays where you set it. Perhaps yours is set too high?

Good luck,
Barry
 
M

Mackaroni

.
Dec 7, 2013
97
O'day 302 Baltimore MD
Barry,

Thanks for the thoughts

1. I didn't know this..
2. I cannot get rated RPM in neutral. It's the same whether in neutral or under way.
3. I will try this tomorrow when I go to the boat. Thanks.

Appreciate the advice.
 
You must log in or register to reply here.

Top Bottom