1998 883

So tonight I noticed my throttle was really stiff and sticking.

I checked the throttle lock. Whether it's all the way out or all the way in it makes no difference. The cables look like there's no binding. I checked at the carb that both cables move. So the return hasn't come out.

I'm going to try to lube them tomorrow with wd-40. It's the only lube I have readily available

Any other ideas I should try

 

There should be a **** right under the throttle housing, where your thumb would be if you were holding the the grip. Adjust that so that you throttle grip snaps back to "closed throttle" position immediately after you let it go.

Beyond that, I have no idea.

 

If the cables are original, it may be time for new ones.
WD40 is not what I would recommend, a much better choice is Dri-Slide, which can be found at most places that sell firearms (Sporting Goods stores, gun shops, etc).
Dri-Slide goes on wet an dries to a graphite like powder. It won't attract dirt like oil will, which is what gunk's up cables to begin with.

 

I already checked the throttle lock. The position. Of the the throttle lock makes no difference. It's still stiff.

I did notice today when I went out to check on it. Haven't done anything and the throttle works fine now.

Last night it was a little cold. Is there something that the cold would cause to get stiff

 

Update. I went ahead and used WD-40 to lube both throttle cables. Seemed to have made a difference. The throttle now snaps back. Only time will tell if it still sticks during colder weather.

 

Cold weather causes the oil and dirt in the cable to turn thick and gummy. That is exactly why you shouldn't use oil to lubricate them.

 

Well. It's gotta be wd-40 until I can get a can of cable lube. I'm really strapped for cash and my bike is my only mode of transportation for now.

 

you and your big brain. it make sense wy i suddenly had that issue when i was recently in NC. i fiddled with adjuster repeatedly

 

Update:

Completely lubed both cables with the proper tool and proper lube. Used a whole can between the two cables. Also took out the carb and cleaned the butterfly valve. Also lubed between the bars and the grip

The dang thing still sticks really bad when it's cold. Last night it dropped to 60 degrees and my throttle was really stiff.

The only thing I can think of next is replacing the cables.

 

Sounds like a good idea. 60 degrees is not very cold.

Your bike did not get knocked over on the throttle side? The grip is not sticking to the bar end? That happened to me.

John