The purpose of this SAE Recommended Practice is to provide guides toward standard conditions for operating marine engine throttles (gasoline or diesel) where push-pull cable control is applicable.

For control cable information see SAE J917.

a. Maximum desirable force required to make or maintain a throttle setting, 22 N (5 lb), as applied by the control cable.

b. Amount of travel required for the engine throttle lever is as follows:

1. Two holes in the engine throttle lever at radii to provide 44.5 mm (1-3/4 in) and 70 mm (2-3/4 in) linear travel, idle to full throttle.

2. The engine throttle lever may be adjustable in length.

c. The holes in the engine throttle lever for attaching the cable terminal should be 6.35 mm (1/4 in) diameter. The engine throttle lever at these holes should not be more than 6.35 mm (1/4 in) thick.

Common cable terminals used are ball joints, clevises, and pivots.

d. Provide clear cable path to the engine throttle lever.

e. Provide choice of cable paths from different angles. This can be done by having the engine throttle lever repositionable on the engine throttle shaft.

f. Provide bracket support on or near the carburetor or governor. This can be a hub, bolt holes, bolts, or other means for use in attaching a cable anchor bracket.

A bolt pattern concentric with the engine throttle shaft is desirable.