Throttle cable adjustment

DANIELJAY

MEMBER
1998 HONDA CIVIC
1.7L
4 CYL
2WD
AUTOMATIC
176,000 MILES

I am trying to adjust the throttle cable. But no matter what I do, the slack doesn't come out of the cable. I have no tension on the gas pedal. It seems like the cable is too long, but it isn't, it is the correct cable. To my knowledge the cable adjustment should be easy, is there something special you have to do for this car?

1 Reply

KENW1

MECHANIC
213 POSTS

Thanks for visiting 2CarPros.

I'll post the adjustment procedures below for you.

Inspection/Adjustment

1. Start the engine. Hold the engine at 3,000 rpm with no load (in park or neutral) until the radiator fan comes on, then let it idle.
2. Check that the throttle cable operates smoothly with no binding or sticking. Repair as necessary.

3. Check cable free play at the throttle linkage. Cable deflection should be 10-12 mm (3/8-1/2 in.).
4. If deflection is not within specs, loosen the locknut, turn the adjusting nut until the deflection is as specified, then retighten the locknut.
5. With the cable properly adjusted, check the throttle valve to be sure it opens fully when you push the accelerator pedal to the floor. Also check the throttle valve to be sure it returns to the idle position whenever you release the accelerator pedal.

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