1982 Ski Nautique 2001 - Throttle Cable Replacement

[Ablackler]

We were on our final run of this season over the weekend and I believe the throttle cable broke. I can shift in and out of gear but can't get out of idle.
Does anyone have suggestions on finding a replacement and any tips or tricks for replacing the cable? Are there other cables I should plan to replace while I am working on this project?
I am also wondering how much water should I expect to leak into the bilge area while running? It seems there is constantly water in the bilge area and the pump works every hour or so.
We just purchased this boat in the spring, so this is all new to me.
Thanks for the guidance,
Adam

[Quinner]

Check on the back side of the morse control to ensure both cables are still connected, same thing at the carb.
Your shaft should only leak a drop every couple seconds unless you have a drip less packing, then no drip as name implies. Your leaking water somewhere, start by checking the shaft while underway, if that is not it then the rudder would be the next place I look.

[Ablackler]

Thank Quinner for the suggestions. I can see where it is connected to the throttle body and at the carb. When I push the throttle down, it doesn't move at the carb and when I move the cable at the carb, it sounds like something is hitting under the floor at the driver's seat. I am going to research the cable info I pulled from it last night to find a replacement. I am not sure if I should also plan to replace the cable that also activates the transmission while I am at it or leave it be.

I think I have an issue with water leaking and have inspected the hull fully and do not see any issues there. I will look up how to evaluate the packing, as you suggested, and decide if I am up for the task.

Thanks again for the guidance.

[Quinner]

One other place to look for leaks is where the deck meets the hull, essentially behind the rub rail. You would likely notice that though as it would be running down the sides getting the floor wet also. One method of finding leaks is to fill the bilge (not to high obviously) with water while on the trailer then get under the boat and look for drips.
There should be a little circular black cover on the floor by the rear seat, remove that and watch the shaft packing while underway, should just be a drip every couple seconds, any more it needs some maintenance.

[Ablackler]

Great idea on the leak Quinner, thanks! I will update this after I test it out over the Thanksgiving break.
Thanks again for the suggestions! I am going try my hand with these repairs to push my knowledge of the boat. Mechanical repair is not a strength of mine, so your suggestions are great! Thank you.