Can't throttle up in neutral

[dmgray55]

I have a 1999 120 Force. When I attempt to throttle up in neutral the shift mechanism stops right about where you would expect it to start providing fuel and won't move any further. If I shift into forward or reverse there is no problem. Any ideas?

 

[gcboat]

Re: Can't throttle up in neutral

While in neutral try pulling on the base of the throttle shifter itself. Pull it out like you were trying to remove it from the assembly. There also might be a button or something along that line to push or pull to disengage the shifter. Once disengaged you can move it forward without it going into gear. Don't race it too fast in that position.

 

[Frank Acampora]

Re: Can't throttle up in neutral

That's because it is functioning correctly. The safety interlock prevents you from over-revving the engine in neutral.

The linkage will only allow the throttles to crack open and the timing to advance about a couple of degrees. If you push firmly on the control handle, with the shift disengaged, the engine will be in cold start or fast idle position. This will allow somewhere between 1500-2000 rpm for warm-up.

 

[dmgray55]

Re: Can't throttle up in neutral

Sorry, maybe I wasn't too clear. When I push the button on the shifter which normally allows you to throttle up the engine in neutral is where I have the problem. I hold the button in and push forward as if taking off in forward. Once it meets the place where there used to be some resistance and the engine would begin to throttle up it stops and can't be pushed any further.

 

[Frank Acampora]

Re: Can't throttle up in neutral

Ah! In that case, you need to check the cables for excess compliance or check for looseness either in the control box or at the engine end of the cables. Those cables are Mercury ends. AND, if I remember correctly, Mercury changed the throttle linkage to accomodate the Mercury cables and ends.

Since the control tower and neutral interlock are still the same as older Force, without actually putting my hands on it, I would venture a guess that the problem lies right there (Cable ends or linkage.).

The other thing that comes to mind is if you changed the idle speed. Raising the idle speed by screwing in the idle stop screw removes some or all of the clearance in the neutral interlock. Thus: with little to no clearance, the timing and throttles will not advance that small amount to allow fast idle.

I did go back to see the photos I took of the 97 Force I rebuilt but I have already deleted them, Thus: I do not have a clear picture in my mind of the actual linkage.