1989 Johnson 88 idle rpm will not reduce when turing the idle adjustment screw

[RoGun_Mako171]

My idle speed when in gear and on the water is about 900 RPM and I want it to be 650 RPM. The idle adjustment screw is not touching the stopper, so turning it counter-clockwise more does nothing. I can push the lever so the idle adjustment screw will contact the stopper and RPM reduces, but there appears to be something prohibiting it from returning to the stopper during normal operation. I removed and lubed the linkages and did a link-n-synch, but still the idle screw is not touching the stopper. Any ideas?

 

[Joe Reeves]

That idle stop screw is just that to stop the idle from dropping lower from engine vibration when in idle.

Adjust the idle by adjusting the threaded trunion on the throttle cable where it is anchored just inside the hood pan.

 

[RoGun_Mako171]

Thanks for the input Joe. Looking at the engine from the boat, would I turn the threaded trunion on the throttle cable clockwise or counter-clockwise to reduce the idle rpm?

 

[racerone]

You would turn it so that it gets pulled against the stop.----One way is wrong and the other way is correct !

 

[Joe Reeves]

Thanks for the input Joe. Looking at the engine from the boat, would I turn the threaded trunion on the throttle cable clockwise or counter-clockwise to reduce the idle rpm?

It doesn't matter how I'd answer that as it depends on which side of it (the trunion) you're looking at. Turn it as "racerone" states. You'll realize the correct answer as soon as you start turning the trunion.

 

[RoGun_Mako171]

I will use the trial and error approach next time I'm on the water to figure out which direction will loosen the throttle cable.

 

[Joe Reeves]

I reread your question, sorry, misread...... In boat, looking at trunion, clockwise retards idle.

 

[RoGun_Mako171]

Great, thanks again Joe.