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The throttle response on our 2011 Montauk 170 with a Merc 90 seems very late When extending forward from Neutral, it shifts right away but it's not until about 2/3's to 3/4's of the way up that the throttle starts to engage. It is then very sensitive all the way up to the 90-degree full on. Is this normal for the Montauk control response or can it be adjusted at the engine?
I am familiar with Mercury rigging, but have not had experience with a four-stroke engine.
However, assuming it is all the same, it does sound like the problem is at the engine connection. But keep in mind, that it could also be a broken cable, or something wrong at the control or with the EFI system.
The throttle cable on Mercs "pulls" the lever on the engine to increase speed. The adjustment is made by threading the "barrel" in the cable to achieve the correct length, so that the lever pushes just lightly on the throttle stop in neutral. In neutral, you should be able to pull out a piece of paper, without tearing. If it tears, back off the pressure by rotating the barrel toward the stern, which shortens the length slightly. Have someone move the throttle into forward with the engine still in neutral, and you should see the throttle lever start to open immediately, with little free travel, if any. If all looks good as described, you have some other problem.
By doing all of this, you should be able to tell what the problem is. I suppose it's also possible the EFI system needs adjustment or is not working properly.
Made it up to the boat and I was able to review the throttle and shift linkage on the outboard vs the control position.
At full throttle, there is still about 1/4 of an inch or 6mm more that the throttle lever can be moved at the engine. I won't be able to test if I gain any more rpm by pushing on the lever with my hand until I'm in the water next time.
The throttle engagement after the shift lever was fully seated had only a slight delay.
There wasn't as much slack between the two as I thought there would be but it does appear it could use a bit of adjustment. I now just have to figure out how. I can see the threaded rod for adjustment but not sure on the procedure so I have some homework to do.
