How to Adjust the Accelerator Cable on a Chevrolet Silverado
by Jeremy HoltIf the accelerator pedal on your Chevrolet Silverado is beginning to feel "sticky," or throttle response is a little sluggish, the likely cause is a slackened or stretched accelerator cable. To fix this problem, cable adjustment is necessary. This is a maintenance task you can perform yourself, in a short time with only a few simple tools. By doing the job yourself you'll save the time and expense of taking the truck to a mechanic.
Step 1
Open the hood. Disconnect the negative cable from the battery before working on any part of the fuel system.
Step 2
Remove the retaining screw from the intake manifold cover with a socket driver. Remove the cover.
Step 3
Locate the throttle lever and throttle cable assembly, which are directly beneath where the intake manifold cover was, in the center of the engine. The cable runs from there to the accelerator pedal inside the car. A black plastic nut connects the cable to the linkage.
Step 4
Turn the plastic nut by hand in a clockwise direction. You'll feel the cable tighten; stop turning when the cable starts to become taut.
Step 5
Replace the intake manifold cover and retaining screw. Replace the battery cable to the negative terminal. Start the engine. If the engine idles more quickly than normal, turn it off and adjust the plastic nut on the cable back until the engine idles at normal speed.
Things You'll Need
- Socket set and driver
Warnings
- Make sure the engine is completely cool before starting this procedure.
- Always wear eye protection.
Writer Bio
Based in Middletown, Delaware, Jeremy Holt has worked as a writer, copy-editor and proofreader for MBNA Corporation, Rahli Inc. and Kreativz.com. since 1998. Born and educated in the United Kingdom, he holds a Bachelor of Science degree in psychology from the University of Glamorgan.
