January 18 2014 - throttle control cable

Good Day all...

Hank comes once or twice a week to check on me, to ensure that all is well.
His routine is to:
Outside:

1. check to see if I am still floating and at the correct level.
2. check all mooring lines.
3. check all fenders and their lines.
4. remove all presents left behind from otters and bird life.
5. check the power line connections.

Inside:

1. Check the bilge for water
2. Check all windows and hatches for leaks
3. Check the motor compartment
4. and finally start my engine and run it under load (in gear) until my engine is nice and warm.

This week, Hank noticed that the throttle cable was very hard to move and could like get my engine up to 2000 rpm.

As usual, a simple thing like removing 4 bolts / screws took over one hour with numerous types of tools. Nothing is simple on a sailboat with cramped engine space. You need mirrors, three hands, trouble lights, and proper tools to get the work done.A comment on tools... get the best you can afford, in a proper storage case. Don't use "crappy" tools, leads to nothing but bruised / cut knuckles, frustrations and takes way longer to do the repairs. Hank's threw a few tools overboard in frustration.

With the cable now removed, Hank noticed that the cable covering had worn out in two places, leaving the metal throttle cable exposed to the salt water. The cable was completely rusted and was starting to fray. It is a good thing that Hank noticed this, as the cable could of broken out at sea.

Now looking for a new cable... more money, oh well... that is boating...

Tarka still resting at home berth.... Tarka out!