I am looking at installing a set of k throttle in my 1985 242, are these a straight up swap or will I need new cables as well. The boat has mercruiser alpha1 drives.

You need new cables with the correct ends

I didn't do k's but I switched to Eddie marine elites and I did not need new cables. You could be just fine. This was a 272 sr1 with small blocks and alphas.

We did an 88 242 and the cables for the original quicksilver shifter were too short to lock in their holder and have the end reach. It was short by a few inches.

2 responses both different results. Lol. Both from quicksilver shifters. Good luck. Lol

My k-controls should be here tomorrow along with the elusive part #40's.
Should know something by early next week. 1987 242 454 alpha.
I'll post results.

That will make it easier for me. I don't mind replacing cables if I have to, I would just rather have al the parts and a plan when I start the project.

Mercury sm#90-814705r03 section 10 suggest Morse 33c cables some non dts quadrants may need a clevis style end .it should be worth whatever effort necessary though .great upgrade

I have a set of both controls on the bench ,can try to help .

Do a search on the forum for "845281" four responses will come up and give you a good idea what to look for and what is required, (i think). I will be more famuliar this week as i progress with my single handle quicksilver to zero effort controls.