Boat Outboard to Throttle Linkage Instructions

Throttle linkage is a term that refers to the hardware linking the cable that connects from the outboard motor's throttle controller to the side of the carburetor. The throttle cable end connects to the linkage, which is actually a firm piece of hard wiring that loops through the shifting arm on the side of the carburetor. If nothing appears to happen when you twist the throttle arm, there is a disruption to the connection between the throttle cable and the linkage. Fixing it will take less than 30 minutes.

Things You'll Need

  • Wrench
  • Pliers
  • Screwdriver
  • Replacement linkage
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Instructions

    • 1

      Remove the boat's negative battery cable with the wrench.

    • 2

      Unlatch the outboard motor's top engine cover. On most motors, there are cover latches on each side that you can flip upwards to remove the cover.

    • 3

      Trace the throttle cable running from the outboard's throttle controller to the engine. Chances are, if the cable is loose, the end of the throttle cable is unconnected. Hold it in your hand for now.

    • 4

      Locate the carburetor on your outboard. It sits right below the air cleaner, or air filter. If necessary, remove the air filter by removing the wing nut with your fingers and setting the filter cover and filter off to the side. Depending on your outboard's setup, it may be necessary to remove the air filter to get more solid purchase on the carburetor.

    • 5

      Pull the throttle cable taut with the pliers by pulling it through the plastic sheathing towards you. Use a screwdriver to attach the end of the throttle cable to the new piece of linkage.

    • 6

      Run the other end of the shift linkage through the control arm on the side of the carburetor and bend it back so that it locks in place on the control arm. Test the throttle linkage by moving the throttle controller. As you do this, the control arm on the side of the carburetor should move freely back and forth.

    • 7

      Replace the air filter and air filter cover if you removed it to access the carburetor. Also, place the engine cover back on and latch it into place. Replace the negative battery cable.