Is Your Idle is Too High? Check Your Linkages

Original Question:

From <unknown>

I can't seem to get the idle below 1500 rpm. Actually, if I push the throttle levers with a screw driver, I can get the idle to ~ 800, but once I "goose it" the idle returns to the 1500 range. I think the throttle butterflies and shafts aren't closing all the way to the "stops".

Peter Zaborski's Answer:

Date: Fri, 3 Jul 1998 18:54:31 -0600
From: Peter Zaborski
Subject: High Idle

I would check to make sure the linkage is not binding. Press down on the linkage between the carbs. It should go down smooth and easy, no excessive force.

Common points of "tightness" are the ball and socket joints (easily dismantled and lubricated) and the big shouldered bolt attached to the bell crank lever. I would lubricate these points - grease for the ball and sockets if you take them apart, WD40 for the shouldered bolt. If you take apart the ball and sockets, make sure you don't lose the distance settings between the various points of the linkage.

[ed. note: another lister has warned that WD40 should be used as a water repellent, and that it does not lubricate well enough for long-term use. The editor takes no stand on this issue; this is just here to provide full disclosure.]

Another potential point for the binding is the bushings which the accelerator pedal shaft passes through. Perhaps these are missing on your car? They are a semi-hard plastic compound. Pretty easy to replace if you have spares, or just spray some WD40 in there (not too much).

HTH,

- --- Peter Zaborski CF58310UO Calgary,Canada ---