Is this Normal?

[Margarittamobile]

Still new to DP. I'm not yet sure what model FL we have under our 98 Tradewinds yet. Anyway, the throttle on the unit operates like it has a 30 foot rubber band attaching it to the engine. It is very difficult to modulate the application manually, but the cruise does a fine job. Is this normal?

[Gary RVRoamer]

I'd have to say no. Your DP may not be as responsive as whatever you had before, but cruise and the foot pedal ought to act the same.

It could be a mechanical problem at the pedal. Are you sure there is no carpet or whatever under the pedal? I had some wiring droop down behind mine once and it made the pedal feel kind of spongy feeling. It went down when I pushed, but not easily and it was hard to control speed.

[Margarittamobile]

Is the linkage mechanical of electronic?

[bdpreece]

If you are new to DP's I suspect you are experiencing turbo lag where you mash the peddle but there is a lag while the turbo spins up. DP's just don't snap like a gas engine. While under cruise the computer takes over and fuel is probably applied more evenly . Then again you could actually have a turbo problem. You also need to make sure all the maintenance has been done like changing out the fuel filters, checking the air filter gauge etc.

[Clonetrooper]

On my 38' DP Fl with XC chassis, there is an electric sending unit(rheostat)on foot pedal that sends eletric signal to computer on engine. If you are having problems with pedal but not cruise I'd say the problem is in the pedal or that end of throttle. Little more complex than this but the throttle is mechanical (foot pedal) to electric signal to engine. No long cable involved.
KC

[bdpreece]

Clonetrooper, I had my rheostat fail on our last trip. It caused an intermittent check engine light and the engine would de-rate and only run at idle speed. Not cheap cost me $887.

[Clonetrooper]

Yeah it's one of those things you can't get by without so it can cost $887. Probably one for $100 somewhere.
I found new Michelin XRV's for $395 here in SA so there is hope. Will post soon with info.

[Margarittamobile]

Sorry for the slow response but I have been away from the computer. Based on the information provided (thanks guys) I figure I have a failing reostat (spelling?) control. I have the greatest difficulty with small throttle movements required to maintain a constant speed. The advice to check the service items is a good preseason item.

[chasfm11]

Before you dive into the electrical part, have you done any lubrication to the throttle pedal pivot points? Both it and the brake pedal call for periodic lubrication on the version of the FL manuals that came with ours. When we first bought (used), the responsiveness of both pedals was irratic. Since then, I've followed the lubrication intervals and everything works smoothly.

Just a thought.