CA78 Throttle Cable

[mason123h]

I just redid all of the handlebar perches, grips, etc. on my CA78, and along with a new twist throttle I installed a new throttle cable as well. However, when twisted, the twist throttle engages the cable and works the carb, but does not twist back into place on its own. I pulled the carb out into view and removed the twist throttle and tried to pull the bare cable but even it seems that the carb just doesn't have enough strength in the spring to pull the cable back in once it is pulled out, let alone have enough strength to twist the throttle assembly back into place as well.

Are there other modern throttle assemblies that would have their own spring-aid systems to help the cable along?
Or maybe my throttle housing spring needs replaced?

Thanks for the help!

[cadman]

Usually the cable routing or a bad cable. Try removing the cable from the handle bar and placing it so it is fairly straight. If it works it is the cable routing. Usually it doesn't take much force to move the cable.

It is possible the spring has been replaced with an incorrect one.

[JSharpPhoto]

you properly lubricated the new cable, right?

[mason123h]

I used WD40 to lube it, I figured that anything thicker would gum up. The cable seems to move freely on the bike and the twist throttle seems functional, maybe it just isn't designed to have as much spring-loaded return tension as other bikes have.

[JSharpPhoto]

WD40 is not a good lubricant for cables. It's made to lubricate things for a short time, and then evaporate. At least, this has been my experience.

Get a real cable lubricant, you'll thank me 500 miles down the road.

I don't think this is the solution to the problem you're having, but i thought i would bring it up since it's a common mistake for new people to not lubricate at all.

[conbs]

JS is right about not using WD40. WD stands for "water displacement". If I understand the history of it, it was developed for the military and it is not really a lubricant at all, though it will provide that function for a short time.

In the long term, when the volatiles evaporate out of it, it leaves a gummy residue.

It is handy to have if you ever get water in your points or other electrical gear and works for that purpose. But, for cables you will be miles ahead with a real cable lubricant. I think I have seen white grease recommended (LM??). I use the modern dedicated cable lube in a spray can.