1997 Dodge Avenger Throttle Cable Overheating Fix

DODGE AVENGER
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JOSH
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I have a 1997 Dodge Avenger, 140,000 miles. Throttle cable started sticking, replaced it and it worked great for about a week. When I checked it, it was melted!! Changed it again and after a quick test drive found it to be extremely hot. Any ideas what would cause this?
May 23, 2006 at 6:42 AM
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LOSONE
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How close does it run to the exhaust manifold?
May 23, 2006 at 6:54 AM
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JOSH
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No, it's not near the manifold. That's the first thing I checked. It seems like it's an internal problem like maybe a ground???? Is that possible?
May 24, 2006 at 1:16 AM
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LOSONE
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It is a very rare occurance when a throttle cable heats to the pont of melting. Look under the dash to see if there are any wires touching the cable. Do the same the entire lenght of the cable. The cable internally is grounded at the throttle body and at the gas pedal

There is a remote possibility that you may be missing the ground beween the engine and fire wall and the cable is acting a ground conductor.

Check all grounds from the battery. Remove and clean the one to the engine, frame and insure you have one from the engine to the firewall. If so make sure it is clean on both ends.

Good luck
May 24, 2006 at 8:24 AM
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JOSH
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Hey, thanks. It did turn out to be a battery ground problem!
May 26, 2006 at 1:00 AM
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LOSONE
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Thanks, thats wahat us old codgers are here for! I'm glad I could be of service losone
May 26, 2006 at 2:48 AM

Suggested Repair

Inspect and clean the battery grounds to the engine and frame, and confirm a clean engine-to-firewall ground. A missing or poor ground can force the throttle cable to carry current and overheat. Also check the cable's full length for contact with wiring.

Conversation Summary

A 1997 Dodge Avenger owner reported a throttle cable that stuck, then melted after replacement and became extremely hot again. It was not near the exhaust manifold. The expert advised checking for wires touching the cable and cleaning battery, engine, frame, and firewall grounds, noting a missing ground could make the cable act as a conductor. The owner confirmed a battery ground problem was the cause.

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