Throttle & choke cable R11RT - when to replace?

[genen8kua]

I have a new to me 1998 R1100RT with 43.5K miles. I'm about to take things apart to install new shocks, replace fuel filter, etc., as these seem overdue. I also have a very intermittant issue with the "choke" cable in that sometimes it catches and doesn't properly release (outer sleeve then comes a little loose from the lever assembly) without a little twist of the throttle, then all is ok. (This almost never happens in normal operation, only if I actuate and then release, and as I ride the bike more, it seems to be happening less and less).

My understanding is that the "choke" problem is related to things binding in the bellcrank assembly.

It looks as if BMW recommends replacing the throttle cable once every 24,000 miles. If I'm going to get in there, I might as well replace them all, but...how great is the need to get in there?

Having your cable break could ruin your day, but looking at the forum, it seems as if this particular maintenance item is a) a pain and b) not commonly done?

What's your real world advice? Bite the bullet since I'll be in the "neighborhood" anyway or put it off for another 50 K miles or so?

If I did go for replacement, I'd probably do all (fast idle, throttle and connector to R & L throttle bodies) and count on early resynch too, right?

Thanks all. Gene

[norton]

You certainly can replace the cables (all 4) due to age and miles. Since you have the tank off you'll have access to the Bowdan box under the battery tray. There is a tab on the front (right) side and after loosening and disconnecting the choke/fast idle cable that you're having issues with and wrestling with the oil overflow hose, the box will slide out. Yes, you'll have to adjust the cables and sync the throttle bodies, but the action will probably give you a much lighter throttle feel.

On the other hand, if you have compressed air available you can blow the dust and crud out of the box and perhaps eliminate the need to change 'em out for now. Try that first and see if the choke cable still sticks. Just don't use any lubricants that leave any residue behind on the cables or you'll be back in there real soon.

[JimMoore]

Here's a link to an article on the sticky choke cable issue, or non-issue AFAIAC. I replace my throttle cables every 40K or so. Choke cable, never. Think of how much the choke cable gets used compared to the throttle cables. Also, if the choke cable ever breaks, you can simply hold the throttle slightly open while starting, then fix it at your leisure.

http://ibmwr.org/r-tech/oilheads/R11throttlecables.shtml

[Andy VH]

One of the things BMW does well is choose good cables for devices controlled by them. So internal rust and binding should not be a problem. I went over 115,000 miles on my 94 R1100RS on the original clutch cable, and I'm still on the original throttle and choke cables at 140,000 miles. I do inspect them regularly and have not found a problem as yet. But thats me. And I ride in a lot of crappy weather too.

I personally can't see replacing the cables every 24k (that's every two years for me), but given you have acquired this bike from someone else, it may be a safe bet to replace them while you have the bike torn down.

[jfremder]

I replaced the three throttle cables @ ~42k mi. on my '04 RT. Left the choke alone. The take-off's looked like new, so by keeping them as spares on the bike I'm now good for life :)

[BMWRich58]

BM' I believe,recommends 36K miles for the cable replacement.
Many have been lucky to get more than 36K miles on their cables "Good for you!". And many, "Ouch..!",... have had splintered/frayed and or broken cables before 24K miles. Things always break at the most wrong of times!

I myself changed the cables at 36K,originals were still intact "no" fraying...
and believe me,their is definately a difference from old to new!

So,it's really up to you.
Preventative maintenence now..... or gamble and take your chances.
Remember...pay me now or pay me "more" later!:deal

[genen8kua]

Thanks for the comments folks: sage advice. I think I'll replace the three, leave the "choke" alone (I now can't get it to malfunction!) and if lucky I'll have some serviceable spares.

Gene