78 Evinrude 140 hp- Problem w/Newly Installed Throttle Cables...or ???

[brettagostini]

Hey folks.<br /><br />Be gentle... I'm still learning!<br /><br />I need help diagnosing a problem. I just installed new throttle and shifter cables on my motor, and I have a strange problem now. (At least... I don't think it was there before the cable change. I only had the boat in the water a few minutes for the first time this summer when I realized the cables were damaged and rusty, sticking badly and needed replacing.)<br /><br /><br />The motor will rev great when using the "warm up lever." However, when I try to run, it's difficult to get any RPMs up. The motor peaks at about 2500 rpms at most. So the boat is really slow. Sometimes (not always) if you continue to run for a few minutes the boat will very slowly gradually climb to maybe 4000rpms. <br /><br />I used my Seloc manual to install the cables, but their info on adjusting is minimal. It just stays something to the effect of making sure there is no slack or play in the cable.<br /><br />So, my question for you all is, is the problem with my new throttle cables and how they are adjusted (with the trunion turney thingee back at the engine) or is there another culprit? Is there something else that needs adjusting subsequent to my new cable installation?<br /><br />Thanks!

 

[Walker]

Re: 78 Evinrude 140 hp- Problem w/Newly Installed Throttle Cables...or ???

Doesn't sound like a cable problem. Sounds more like you need the carbs overhauled, but do this. Take the airbox cover off so you can see the carb throats. Push the throttle lever all the way forward and look in the carbs. The throttle plates should be exactly horizontal. You don't need the engine running to do this.

 

[brettagostini]

Re: 78 Evinrude 140 hp- Problem w/Newly Installed Throttle Cables...or ???

It is likely the carbs need to be pulled and cleaned. The boat was parked without being winterized, so there may be a lot of varnish built up. <br /><br />So, if the plates aren't horizontal, is there an adjustment I should make so that they ARE horizontal?<br /><br />Also, could you explain why the RPMs would come up with the warm up lever but not with the control shift. (I'm always curious about the theory behind this stuff.)<br /><br />Thanks!

 

[Walker]

Re: 78 Evinrude 140 hp- Problem w/Newly Installed Throttle Cables...or ???

If the plates aren't opened all the way there are adjustments that can be made. And your motor revs good with the warmup lever because there is no load on the motor, when you put it in gear you put a load on it and there your problem shows up.