Re: adjusting force throttle cables
If you are not getting full throttle, it is likely not the cable adjustment because unless you are grossly out of adjustment, the throttle handle will usually move until the stop on the tower shaft hits the block.
However, if you have a US marine control, the handle will stop at some point. SO: adjust the cable so that the pivot at the control box is fairly close to the end of the threads on the cable (with the cable threads passing through the pivot). Adjust the pivot at the engine end to about the center of the threads. Now check to see if the stop hits the block. If it does not, then move the pivot at the engine end out further on the threads.
Now, with the tower stop hitting the block, check to see if the carbs are fully open. If they are not, or if they go past horizontal and start to close again, adjust the two ball ends on the bar that goes from the tower shaft to the carb cam. Do not remove the ball joint on the cam because you risk bending the cam. Only remove the ball joint on the tower. Finally, re-adjust the idle speed using the screw and locknut on the tower shaft. Idle speed should be around 700-750 RPM in forward gear, in the water.
Oh yeah! I forgot to mention: there is a groove on each end of the cable. Be sure that each groove is locked into the holder. Look at the other cable--you will see what I mean.