Frequently Asked Questions about
Throttle and Shift Engine Controls and Cables

1. How do I know which type of control cable I need?

In order to determine that, you need to know what brand(s) of engine and control head are on the boat. Mercury/Mariner/Force and OMC/Johnson/Envirude engines usually require an "OEM type" cable when using those engine makers' control heads. OEM type cable have special end fittings designed to connect to the control and engine with minimal hardware. Generally, all other engines and controls use a "universal" 3300/33 type control cable. Universal cables have 10-32 threaded ends and often require extra hardware to connect to the engine and control. Contact the engine manufacturer if you need details on the hookup. Diesels and twin station vessels may use larger diameter (4300 or 6400 type) universal cables; 4300/43 type cables have 1/4-28 threaded ends and 6400/64 cable have 5/16-24 threaded ends. Refer to the "Control Cables" section of this catalog for more information.

Use our "Making Sense of Marine Control Cables" Guide to help you with your throttle and shift cable choice.

2. How do I know what length control cable I need? This depends on two things:

1. Are you doing a first-time control cable installation?
   
   Outboards: Measure from control along unobstructed cable routing to center of outboard. Add two feet to allow for loop which provides unrestricted engine movement. Round up to next whole foot and order that length cable(s).
   
   Stern Drives and Inboards: Measure from control along unobstructed cable routing to shift and/or throttle connection. Round this dimension off to the next whole foot and order that length cable.



2. Are you replacing an existing cable?
   
   Measure the Existing Cable as Follows Measure the cable from tip to tip in inches, and round up to next even foot. Order that length cable.

3. My control used to work fine, but now one lever is hard to move. What should I do to fix this?

First determine where the problem lies. There are three possible trouble areas: the control, the cable, and the throttle or transmission connection. By isolating these one at a time, you will find the problem. Engine(s) must be OFF when performing these checks:

1. Disconnect the cable at the throttle or transmission attachment point. Move the throttle or transmission through its arc to be certain there is no restriction or binding. If the arm is stiff or binding, clean and lubricate moving parts. If this does not solve the problem, make the appropriate repairs. Generally, the force required to move a throttle or shift arm should be no more than 5-10 pounds.



2. With the cable disconnected at the engine end, try to move the control lever. If it moves freely, the problem was the throttle/transmission arm. If the control handle is still hard to operate, disconnect the cable from the control. If the lever moves smoothly, the control cable needs replacement. If the lever is still hard to move, lubricate the lever pivot point in the control with penetrating oil and a light grease.



3. If the problem is with the throttle lever, you may have a cable brake installed to limit cable feedback to the handle. If this is the case, loosen or remove the brake. If the throttle lever creep back is a problem on the boat, you should consider installing a Teleflex CH5600 SLT control. This unit will stop cable creep without sacrificing a smooth feel.