So I went to start the boat today- '03 SSV. I first noticed he throttle lever was as far to the rear as I've ever seen it. Within 45 degs of vertical straight down toward the floor. I repositioned it upright and wiggled it until the starter engaged. When it caught, the engine accelerated to max power, as if I had the throttle full open.
Any ideas on how to reset this?
Thanks.
Sounds to me like the throttle cable is jammed. May be an issue at the engine, if the kids really cranked on it and managed to jam the linkage. Check that and determine if it moves freely or is stuck. Once you eliminate the throttle plate linkage as freely moving, next step is to check the cable connection at the throttle. If that's alright, it is likely a cable replacement to solve this. The 03 didn't have throttle by wire, so you're looking for the black cable on either end.