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[TimG]

Thanks all for your replies - all helpful. The cable was new, so unlikely to have any loose wires. As John J mentioned, the throttle cable is a bit restricted where it enters the carb. After trying all sorts of variations in the cable run, with no difference, I found that twisting the carb just a few degrees from vertical gave the cable just that extra bit of space. It now returns fine. I have taped the ferrule and cable outer to take up the slop, however. LesH - I agree with your assessment that there is probably a little too much friction in the cable inner, but don't see how I can reduce it any more. PeteF - I tend to agree also that the throttle spring is probably too weak, but it does the job ok. I have also adjusted the cable at the carb until it raises the idle unacceptably, but there is no effect on the cable slop, which I have countered as above. All seems to work now, if I discover a better way I will let everyone know.

Cheers
TimG

[Anders F. R.]

From my experience (with several motorcycles since 2000 and lots of bicycles since 1972), it is better to use fairly thick oil in the cables. Something like engine oil SAE 30 or maybe even 50 is good. So called "universal oil" may be good in sewing machines and household appliances, but I find it is too thin to do a good job in the throttle and brake cables. It is noe "fat and slippery" enough, and it runs out again too fast..................... (trying to make paragraphs here)...........

I can specifically mention one experience with a stiff brake cable. It was not oiled in years (not my fault, but previous owner!) and rather stiff but still sort of smooth, like it was lubricated with far too heavy grease and left in the fridge. I hung it from one end and poured thin "universal oil" into it until it came out in the bottom end. Put it back in place, and got a surprice: ......................................

Now the brake was really bad! A little less stiff, but much worse than the earlier "smooth stiffness". Quite rough, in fact. Like it moved in steps. (Sorry, cant express this in good English). After a few days of use, it was no better, so I took it off again.............................

The next try was to get in as much SAE 50 engine oil as possible. Admittedly an exercise for the patient. However, after getting in so much of it as it came out again, once again, the cable was very much better! Not stiff, not "stepped", but smooth and absolutely acceptable.....................................

So I keep using engine oil in all cables. The cables on my Model G are all from 2002, and still good as new.

Regards, Anders F. R.

[Midge]

The adjuster that screws into the top of the carb (noodle?) can be replaced with one that has a 45 degree bend on it. I suggested some time ago that Mr H stock them, but until then they can be found elsewhere easily. I imagine one would allow the cable to fit under the tank much easier.