Possible stupid question, with a picture!

[CatfishMN]

Hi,

Motor is a 1979 Evinrude 35 electric start. I just bought this boat/motor last fall, so haven't run it much, and really haven't worked on it at all. I took it out today, and it seems like the throttle lever doesn't really do much until the last 1/3 of the way forward. I can get almost 30MPH out of it on my little boat, but was wondering if that lack of response in the throttle when in forward is normal? I took a look under the hood, and noticed that when in forward and WOT, this roller is completely free. My question is if that is normal. It really only seems to touch if the throttle lever is in the 'home' position, straight up.

Thanks!

 

[Joe Reeves]

Re: Possible stupid question, with a picture!

The cam roller's function is simply for the idle timing and sync to get the engine smoothly from the idle setting thru the transition toward the higher rpms. The full throttle butterfly function is controlled by a linkage rod that is attcahed to the top portion of the vertical throttle arm located on the port side of the powerhead.

To check the full throttle butterfly position (engine not running), spin the propeller and put the engine into forward gear, open the throttle to full, then check the position of the butterfly.

 

[CatfishMN]

Re: Possible stupid question, with a picture!

Thanks Joe, that is along the lines of what I thought. Is it normal for that much 'slack' in the throttle control? I have no tach, so I can't tell if I an getting full RPMs, but it seems like I am.

 

[mark1961]

Re: Possible stupid question, with a picture!

The motor needs to fully engage a gear before any throttling up can be permitted.....that would be what is making you think you have "slack".....approx the last third before throttle up starts sounds about right to me.

You dont need a tach to check for full throttle.....with the motor not running, just make sure the throttle plate is completely open at WOT (lever pushed fully forward).

 

[Joe Reeves]

Re: Possible stupid question, with a picture!

Is it normal for that much 'slack' in the throttle control?

If you're using a OMC single lever type remote control box, the first 15 degree movement of the lever is just for shifting, after which the throttle movement comes into play.

If using a tiller handle type control, spin the prop and put the engine into gear, then (engine not running) advance the throttle slowly and observe closely to detect any play.

 

[CatfishMN]

Re: Possible stupid question, with a picture!

Got it. Only ran tillers before this one. I checked and everything turns to engage properly. I may have exaggerated the 'final third' after some more examination. We're running right over here. Thanks guys!