What Does a Dashpot Do in an Outboard?

Outboard boat engines are miraculous pieces of machinery, with all the components of an engine room contained within a tiny shell. Outboard engines are susceptible to power surges and drops, and the dashpot helps combat these problems.

  1. Function

    • Outboard boat engines are susceptible to throttle variations due to the sudden shocks and frequent throttle adjustments that occur during the average boat ride. The dashpot works in conjunction with the engine governor to regulate the amount of throttle movement that is possible, thus avoiding surges and drops in power. Such variations in throttle movement may be harmful to the engine.

    System

    • The dashpot is similar to a hydraulic piston that applies opposing pressure to the throttle lever to keep it from extending too far, too fast. Some dashpots are filled with heavy liquids, such as kerosene. Others are dry and have a spring-loaded piston. Both perform the same regulatory function.

    Features

    • Dashpots with adjustable pressure settings are available, although most are not equipped with this feature. Adjustable dashpots allow you to fine-tune the throttle response to the situation or to your preference.