Throttle levers 'stiff' at higher RPM?

Lycon73

Recruit
Joined
Jun 12, 2025
Messages
5
Larson Cabrio 310 with twin Volvo Penta engines, the throttle levers seem relatively smooth at idle but when boat gets up to speed shifting gets harder and harder, particularly shifting DOWN on both throttle levers from forward to neutral. The shifter cables are brand new, shifter itself doesn't seem to have any obvious problems. Some said it can be something with the drives, while another mechanic said with Volvo engines there's a mechanical pressure at higher RPMs where it's normal for throttles to be 'harder', which is different to the Mercruiser system, according to him.
Anyone know what else it can be? Nothing overtly wrong with the drives, which are Volvo SX as per user here who identified them, and seem in good condition.
 

MikeSchinlaub

Petty Officer 1st Class
Joined
Jan 14, 2025
Messages
266
I'm not an engine guy, but have you tried them with the engine off? They might be binding up as they extend. That's the best I can do.
 
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