motor idle way high!

[timcup]

I have a 8hp johnson on my sailboat. I was motoring along and hit a shoal. Backed out ok, but now my boat won't idle. I can manually push the linkage to get idle speed, but the moment i let go, it revs pretty high. Before this, I never had a problem. I don't know if the sudden prop stop sheared a key, or knocked something else haywire. Other than idle, the motor still runs great... Anyone else have this experience? Thanks for any assistance!

 

[steelespike]

Re: motor idle way high!

Speaking genericaly::
Probably the shock when you hit the shoal bent or missaligned the throttle linkage
There may be one or more gears linking the throttle one may have jumped a cog or more.Also possible a motor mount was damaged.There is probably a throttle stop adjustment screw.You may be able to lower the speed by adjusting it.Don't shift the motor at the high idle as you will damage the clutch dog.