Topic: disappointing new discovery

[hawkeye]

Well, I delved into my first attempt at checking the tappets and before I found out that I didn't have the correct size of feeler gauge I also discovered after taking off the fuel tank that one of my throttle cables broke.  Anyway, it's the one that's closest to the rider, the front cable is okay.  What I was wondering is what affect this has on the motorcycle since I've been riding it pretty steadily for the past month or two.  If I replace it will I notice any difference?  Also, on an unrelated note is it okay to use brake cleaner on the valve covers and threads?  Thanks for you help guys as always.

[heffay]

the cable that broke helps the spring loaded return of the throttle grip.  your throttle is still spring loaded but instead of the spring pushing the other cable back through it would pull the cable which is broken (which is easier for a spring loaded mechanism like the one we are talking about)  so yes, you might notice a difference but only when letting the throttle snap back on its own as opposed to manually twisting it back. 

[TwoTired]

I don't know what formulation your brake cleaner is.  Or, whether your bike is still stock.  But, the covers were clear coated at manufacture.  The clear coat should resist alcohol or mineral spirits.