Sticky Throttle/Shift cable

[oregoncruiser]

The shifter/throttle lever in my new to me boat seem pretty stiff coming out of neutral into both forward and reverse. The boat is a 2004 Larson 230 LXI. This boat has only 55 hours on it, but was stored for a long time prior to me purchasing it. I am bored since it is winterized, and want to get all of these little things out of the way before the sunshine returns.

Maybe it's just too 'new'?

I'm thinking I would disconnect the cables at the engine and try to learn whether it is the cables, or the linkage that is guilty. If it's cables, can I just remove them and shoot some graphite into the sleeve and work it?

Any other suggestions?

 

[M9.9]

Re: Sticky Throttle/Shift cable

I'm not sure if your shifter is locked when the keys off, but I had experienced the same problem you mention. Only to find out after replacing some internal lever-casters, Kids love to play with the controls down at the dock while dads chopping wood-lol.

 

[southkogs]

Re: Sticky Throttle/Shift cable

You might disconnect the linkage and see, but I would think the culprit is up in the lever itself. Before you go tearing into it though, is it stiff as in you have trouble putting it into gear and feel like you're gonna' break something. Or is it more that you'd expect it to be smoother?

Some of the levers can feel a bit klunky.

 

[oregoncruiser]

Re: Sticky Throttle/Shift cable

Just not very smooth, not stiff like it's gonna break. I foresee it being a nusciance when docking where you need to be able to quickly shift back and forth at an idle. Never considered the lever itself though?!?!?!?!

As far as the shifter being locked, I don't think so, but I first noticed this while underway. Good tip though. Reminds me of the time my fire pump wouldn't work. Tore it apart, rebuilt the card, adjusted valves, all kinds of fun. After I put it back together, it still wouldn't start. Then I turned the switch to "On" and it purred like a kitten. Doh!!!!

 

[bruceb58]

Re: Sticky Throttle/Shift cable

What sterndrive do you have?

I doubt its the control itself and you can't lubricate the existing cables. Only remedy is to replace.

 

[robert graham]

Re: Sticky Throttle/Shift cable

Maybe check/loosen the throttle lever friction adjustment screw to be sure it's not too tight. Then disconnect cables back at the motor to determine if stickiness is in the cables or back at motor/carb controls. Really old/sticky cables may just need to be replaced rather than attempt to lubricate them....especially if saltwater has entered and corroded the cable on the inside.

 

[bruceb58]

Re: Sticky Throttle/Shift cable

I looked at your past posts and see you have a Volvo. If this boat has been used in saltwater, its very likely your shift cable needs to be replaced. Same thing happened with my boat when I bought it. It only had 70 hours on it but had been sitting for a little while and the cable was corroded.

 

[oregoncruiser]

Re: Sticky Throttle/Shift cable

I don't think it's ever been in salt water, sure doesn't show any exterior signs, but.... Good thing to look for.

Bad news for me that they are not serviceable. hopefully it's a sticky lever instead huh??

 

[bruceb58]

Re: Sticky Throttle/Shift cable

Take the cables of the throttle shift control and try it.

My bet is on the shift cable.

 

[southkogs]

Re: Sticky Throttle/Shift cable

Another thought - I'm wondering if it's just not a stiff feel for you. My folks boat has a relatively "stiff" shifter compared to my electric shift. You might stop by a local dealer and try a couple of the new ones for comparison. If you're used to being out on 'em, and know this is comparatively stiff, then disregard the idea.

 

[oregoncruiser]

Re: Sticky Throttle/Shift cable

Might just be me I guess. I really don't run anyone elses boat, and I've only had 2 of my own over the past 15 years. Maybe they were so old and wore out I don't know how they're supposed to feel, LOL! I'll pop cables off both the linkge end, and shift lever end and at least isolate the problem. Maybe it just needs to be used.

I appreciate all the input!! Any other ideas, I'd appreciate hearing. I plan to tackle this on Saturday AM, so I'll post back any progress.