Can't find a throttle cable for my van anywhere

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Happy Camper

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Hello everyone,

I'm hoping that the collective genius here can help me with what seemed to be a very simple problem that has taken a strange turn.

I have a 1991 GMC G2500 with a 5.7L 350 TBI. The accelerator cable broke. While it's an easy fix, I can't find the part anywhere. Dealerships, parts houses, wreckers, internet, anywhere! I have found cables for the same van with a diff engine. i have found for almost any and every other year. 

But I truly believe I might find Bigfoot before I find this damn cable...

Please let me know where I might find this silly cable. I truly appreciate any help with this, as I have been stuck for 3 days and it's my DD.

Happy-Camper
 
I don't know where you can get one, but is there any chance you can McGyver it? The time my old stepvan's accelerator cable busted on the road to Chaco Canyon, I replaced it with my strongest cello string and a couple of big paper clips.
 
Have you tried J C Whitney online? I see they have something but I can't tell if it is exactly what you need. They have one called a "universal fit".
 
If this part can't be found, I might just have to try the cello string lol. But in all seriousness, it's rather amazing that it doesn't seem to exist anywhere.

I mentioned the universal type to my mechanic, who is very very good. He said that due to the particular clips this one uses it won't work very well. He's working the phones and parts places also. So far I can't even find a used one.
 
http://shop.advanceautoparts.com/p/...340002-P?searchTerm=throttle+cable+&+brackets

6340002_mrg_5657_pri_larg.jpg
 
A good mechanic will find it if it is out there. Ours always comes up with something for our old vehicles after he shakes the bushes for awhile. Good luck.
 
RockAuto shows 3 lengths for a 1991 GMC C2500 with a 5.7L
GMC
1991
C2500
Interior
accelerator cable

They don't list one for the G but I would bet one of the C2500 ones is it..
2 of the 3 are also listed for the K2500 with the 5.7L
 
I checked rockauto first thing, once I couldnt find it locally, as well as tons of other sites. Looread that universal looks great but has some not so great reviews regarding it's build quality and actual universiality. I can't thank you guys enough for your help and encouragement. This has been a true pain in the rump.
 
take yours to a parts store and compare it to a 1/2 ton and a 1ton. being it's a cable and is flexible it doesn't have to be an exact match a little longer will not hurt. highdesertranger
 
what he said ^^^ if the ends are the same just position it so it isnt kinked and moves freely
 
I will try to do that on monday as I'll be working tomorrow. I was almost ready to jam a long screwdriver or pipe through the doghouse and use my hand for the gas lol.
 
Happy Camper said:
I will try to do that on monday as I'll be working tomorrow. I was almost ready to jam a long screwdriver or pipe through the doghouse and use my hand for the gas lol.

String and wire is how it is done in the Ozarks.  :p  The new kids use duct tape.  :s
 
Duct tape does not last on engine work :p
 
Thanks guys! I'm kinda old school cool, so I'm going to the store to buy string, wire, duct tape, and silly putty...
 
if it moves and it's not supposed to use bailing wire and duct tape. if it doesn't move and it's supposed to use WD-40 and a hammer. that's all you need in your tool box. highdesertranger
 
highdesertranger said:
if it moves and it's not supposed to use bailing wire and duct tape.  if it doesn't move and it's supposed to use WD-40 and a hammer.  that's all you need in your tool box.  highdesertranger

Yup!!

And in a pinch a pop/soda can tab can be used for repairs too!! They make good c clips... :D
 
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