the throttle cable is it suppose to be tight? or is it suppose to be loose giving some slack in it? if it is too loose how can u tell before it gets worse and becomes too loose? also if it needs to be tightened how can you tighten it up and to what extent of tension? TIA

 

Hi, I can answer that.

There should be no real "slack" in the line, but it shouldn't be TOO tight. SprintMax heard that if it was, it could snap. But don't get too scared, the lines are strong.

Was your throttle cable loose in the first place?

Just as long as the cable is straight, it is fine.

 

It should have a minimal amount of deflection and when not being touched, it shouldn't be visible outside the cresent part. As for being too tight? I really don't see how its possible, that is a weak (relatively) spring that provides tension and I would think that it would stretch WAY before snapping. To adjust it, loosen the nut closer to the cresent part and use a wrench to hold it into place, Take another wrench and turn the other nut clockwise until there is little slack. When it is properly adjusted, tighten the other nut again.

 

I just did this on my max, it was very loose. Made quite an improvement.

 

When properly adjusted there is a small amount of slack in the cable.

Accelerator cable:
a) Lift up on the cable to remove any slack.
b) Turn the adjusting nut until the throttle lever starts to move. (The adjusting nut is the one further from the air intake).
c) Back off the adjusting nut 1.5 to 2 turns.
d) Tighten the locknut (the other nut).
e) Verify that the throttle valve opens all the way when you depress the accelerator pedal to the floor and that it returns to the idle position when you release the accelerator. Verify the cable operates smoothly. It must not bind or stick.

Cruise Control cable:
a) Check the accelerator cable for proper adjustment.
b) Turn the adjusting nut until the throttle lever just starts to move.
c) Back off the adjusting nut 0.5 to 1 turn.
d) Tighten the locknut and check for proper operation of the cruise control system.

For photos, please see the Haynes repair manual, page 4-6.