Outboard control cables stiff

[wombat88]

Not sure whether this should be posed here or in the motorboat section.

Anyway, is there a simple way of lubricating outboard control cables? Its a Suzuki DF 50. Throttle is particularly stiff.

Presumably one needs to find a way of getting oil or grease and oil down inside the cable sheath. Not sure how to approach this.

 

[pvb]

Start by taking the cables off the control and seeing how stiff the control itself is - this can be lubricated. If the routing is correct (ie no tight radius bends) then it's probably time for new cables. The cables themselves aren't intended to be lubricated; they have a self-lubricating plastic sheath inside and lubrication may even harm this.

 

[scottie]

Tight bends (within reason )can actually help by reducing drag
long sweeping bends increase scrub but are often essential to allow engine to turn and tilt
checking the sliding ends are not bent is also worth a look
disconnect the end and check how they feel is the engine throttle linkage free

 

[penfold]

Start by taking the cables off the control and seeing how stiff the control itself is - this can be lubricated. If the routing is correct (ie no tight radius bends) then it's probably time for new cables. The cables themselves aren't intended to be lubricated; they have a self-lubricating plastic sheath inside and lubrication may even harm this.

This; control cables are a consumable, they're plastic-lined and this wears.

 

[wombat88]

Thanks all, will have a go at the control and then take it from there.