1982 80hp mariner fixed; linkage question

[Jeff Lindquist]

Thank you everyone for all your help with getting that Mariner of mine going. I got very good response out of the motor on the water.
However, the first 30 seconds or so after starting (like a dream!!), the motor doesn't want to take the small increments of fuel as i increase throttle. After it does, i have full range of throttle for as long as i want. But i noticed right after starting, the rpms and speed will gradually increase even though i am holding the throttle lever steady at about 1/4 WOT. This indicates to me sticky cables due to sitting so long. Is there an easy way to lube throttle cables without tearing everything apart? Commander series control box.
And again thank you everyone thus far, motor has never run this good and increased top end as well.

 

[Chris1956]

Re: 1982 80hp mariner fixed; linkage question

It would be unusual for the cables to move when you hold the throttle lever steady.

If the speed increase occurs right after start up, perhaps the motor is running on three cylinders, and the fourth gradually starts to fire?

 

[Jeff Lindquist]

Re: 1982 80hp mariner fixed; linkage question

do you think that if the cables were a little gummy from sitting a couple years, that after i move the throttle lever, they might take a little bit to slide inside the sleeve? seems like they might take a moment to catch up to where the lever is, but then they would act that way consistantly though i suppose. once it does catch up to the fuel on initial startup (and it does quickly, it isn't a major bog issue) i can do anything with the throttle and it's responsive. including going back to neutral and idling awhile then both creeping away or jumping out of the hole. i have never heard a better idle or smooth running motor than when i completed the previous repairs to carbs and wiring thanks largely to your advice over the past couple weeks! that leads me to believe the cylinders are all on time and firing. And seriously, thank you for all your help to this point!

 

[Chris1956]

Re: 1982 80hp mariner fixed; linkage question

The cables are supposed to be hard-fixed to the throttle. An easy way to tell is to remove the wrap cowl and move the throttle lever and observe the linkage. It should move precisely with the throttle lever.

 

[Jeff Lindquist]

Re: 1982 80hp mariner fixed; linkage question

Will do. Creeping or binding would be evident then wouldn't it. Good idea!! Thanks again!
Also, i think i'll throw a timing light on the wires once more to ensure proper firing as well.