1970 Merc 650 Throttle Control Return

[Fabuglas]

I have two 650 Merks a 1970 and a 1964. Both are using correct single lever controls. I have to hold the throttle forward when running the boats that have these motors on them to keep it from returning back to neutral. Where is the adjustment to add friction to the throttle so that the throttle lever will stay forward without returning on its own?

 

[1960 Starflite]

My 1965 "650" single lever control has a slotted screw "flat blade" that tightens against a brass plug, which puts friction on the control. I'd post a pic, but the boat is covered for the season. Look towards the front of control.

 

[Fabuglas]

Thank you. I had one of the two controls apart to reconnect the "fast idle" lever arm and adjust throttle and shift cables correctly. I recall the small screw in front of the control box. I assumed it was a neutral detent. It looked like it should have had something like a spring pushing a ball bearing. None of which was present. Someone had shoved a plastic cement anchor which was being crushed from the screw pressure. I guess I should have left that special engineering alone. Do you know if the pieces I need to put it back together like it should be are available for purchase new or, am I destined for trying to locate used stuff?
Maybe the second control still has all the right pieces for the detent/throttle resistance adjustment and I can just tighten the screw? Yah I'm sure it will be that easy...

 

[Chris1956]

A lot of the MerControls do not have friction adjustments. Usually the cable gets a bit sticky, after a while, and the problem is solved.