First 3.7 Merc start jumps to very high rpm

[EDB78]

Started getting my 3.7 merc ready for the season and at first it would turn over but never start. Put spark tester on and had no spark at the plugs. Checked distributor cap and it was burnt at all the contacts. Replaced it and cleaned all electrical connections and boom she fired right up. Only problem is it was as if i had it at full throttle. I shut it down quick. Tried again, same thing. Tried total of 4 or 5 times and stayed the same. When i originally tried to start before changing the cap i sprayed starting fluid down the throat of the carb. I did this maybe 3 times. So now i am wondering if it is the starting fluid still in there causing the rpms to jump or if it something else. Any thoughts on this?

 

[NHGuy]

Is the throttle stuck open? It can be checked with the engine off. Prop open the choke with a pen or stick or something. Then you can watch the throttle plate while someone else operates the throttle lever at the controls.
Also if your distributor was not tight you might have turned it to a more advanced position while changing the cap and wires.. Or you may have moved the wires one spot to the advance side too. A greatly advanced distributor can make the engine run very fast.
Did you use a cap that has the cylinder #s on it? And are they correct? Or did you hopefully copy the old cap, and confirm the firing order?

 

[EDB78]

I copied the old cap wire for wire but i will check the firing order again to be sure. Will also check to see if throttle is wide open. Im assuming the starting fluid is not still affecting the motor then.

 

[Scott Danforth]

Never use starting fluid. You cant control RPM when she fires

 

[achris]

'Starting fluid' = cylinder head going into orbit! DON'T USE IT!

It was designed for use on DIESEL engines, which are made to withstand the very high cylinder pressures it creates. Petrol engines can't handle it.

Chris.........

 

[EDB78]

So do you think if i keep starting then shutting off eventually it will run the starting fluid out of there?

 

[nola mike]

Starter fluid should be long gone.

 

[EDB78]

Thats what i thought too. Will check other things tomorrow. Thanks for input.

 

[Bt Doctur]

So do you think if i keep starting then shutting off eventually it will run the starting fluid out of there?

No but you sure will damage the pistons

 

[Benny67]

That ether should have evaporated. Check your shift cable/ carb linkage. It's probably hung up somewhere.

 

[EDB78]

Update:
The throttle cable was broken. Replaced and good to go! Thanks for the input everyone.