throttle cable and idle adjustment 1986 Mercury 35 hp 2-stroke

[NJMerc]

I now have a running 1986 Mercury 35hp 2-stroke, YAY!!!
However, have no idea how to adjust the throttle cable and idle. When I first fired it up, it ran super fast, so I adjusted the throttle cable to lower the RPMs by lengthening the distance between the barrel and the point where it attaches to the linkage. That did lower the RPMs, but I'm 100% sure I'm not doing it right.

So, here's the question, are there any videos that you guys know of that explain how to do this. I thought it was like a car, but the linkage is confusing me, lol!

Thanks and Happy 4th to all!!!

 

[Chris1956]

Merc has a specific way to link and synch it's motors. I therefore think a Merc Service Manual is a good idea for you.

Generally, you set the idle pickup timing to spec, and adjust the carb to open as the timing hits that timing specification. You then set max spark advance. You set these with one spark plug removed and using a timing light, engine not running, ign on. At this point, you do not change those settings, or motor damage is likely.

Next you set idle speed by using the idle stop set screw and use the throttle cable to push the throttle closed against the stop.

I sent you a PM.

 

[jimmbo]

By having the Sense to adjust the length of the Throttle Cable as you were trying to lower the Idle Speed, to me, indicates you have the Capability to understand how these Motors work. There needs to be a bit of Preload on that Cable once the Idle Speed is set. Too little and the Idle Speed may Vary, too much and it will be difficult to shift out/in of Gear.

The Carb is supposed to be fully closed at Idle, in fact the Carb will remain fully closed until almost all of the Timing Advanced has occurred. Idle Speed is adjusted strictly by the retarded/advancing the Timing.

When Chris says a Merc Service Manual, I believe he means an actual Mercury Service Manual specific to your Motor, not some 3rd Party Manual that covers Decades and many Models of Mercury Motors.