Fuel shutoff solenoid and cable

[Capt. Tommy]

Recently had Ellie moved by truck from Sarasota to Jacksonville. The cable I pull to shut off the engine has become difficult to pull out, and my research thus far tells me that cable is connected to a solenoid that cuts fuel to the engine. My problem is, after several days of trying, I simply can't find a photo or diagram of where on the engine this solenoid is. I want to see if the cable is corroded or pinched or whatever, but not sure where to start. Ideas and suggestions are appreciated.

[Jim Walsh]

Recently had Ellie moved by truck from Sarasota to Jacksonville. The cable I pull to shut off the engine has become difficult to pull out, and my research thus far tells me that cable is connected to a solenoid that cuts fuel to the engine. My problem is, after several days of trying, I simply can't find a photo or diagram of where on the engine this solenoid is. I want to see if the cable is corroded or pinched or whatever, but not sure where to start. Ideas and suggestions are appreciated.

It would help to know which engine you have. My stop cable is connected to the stop lever adjacent to the throttle.

[Capt. Tommy]

Yes, that would have helped to identify the engine. Universal M25.

[Capt. Tommy]

Jim, your answer sparked a simple thought and basic question. Now I understand that a solenoid would be an electric kill, while my cable is a MANUAL system? I've been thinking my cable is attached to a solenoid, and wondering where and how that works; perhaps I don't HAVE the solenoid at all.
I'll be able to look at the engine itself more closely this week. Thanks for the insight.

[Frenchy]

This may not be relevant, but I had a Cal 27 with Yanmar shut-off cable like the one Jim has. It froze up too and nothing
could free it up. A parts dealer told me it was a common problem and sold me a new cable-I think it was about $50.
I'm thinking you might free it up by removing it and taping a plastic bag with a hole in the bottom of the bag around the
cable and putting a little light oil in the bag. Hopefully, the oil will seep down between the cable and casing and free it up.
It's a trick motorcyclists use to lubricate brake and clutch cables. Good luck in any case. - Jean

[JWSutcliffe]

Not a solenoid-just a lever on the injector pump. Lubricate the cable from both ends, and all will be good,

[mgphl52]

In this instance 'cable' can be a misnomer as most (all?) shutoff 'cables' are really a single wire, unlike MC clutch and/or brake cables. If left in position for a long time they can become very difficult to lubricate adequately. My suggestion would be to replace the cable as they are not that expensive.

BTW, some diesel engines do have shutoff 'solenoids' but the are operated with a button instead of a cable.

[JWSutcliffe]

WD40 has worked every time for me.

[Capt. Tommy]

Thanks all. Will do this weekend!

[Neil Gordon]

By the way, it's a good idea to know where the manual fuel shut off lever is (i.e., the other end of the cable!) ... diesels are hard to stop otherwise.

[mgphl52]

vise grips on the fuel line work in a pinch...