Installing tilt/trim

[JDP]

Anybody have any trick to installing a tilt trim assembly. After fighting to get the assist cylinder I tried to install the tilt assembly I figured out that you have to install it from the backside of the motor mount. I unscrewed all the bolts and was able to lift the motor enough to have my wife try to slide it in. But to get it in you have to remove the motor and reservoir. I pulled them and was able to get the unit in. After mounting the motor back down I realized that I can't get to the back screw on the motor and reservoir. So unless anybody has any tricks then it looks like I'll be renting a cherry picker tomorrow.
Thanks

 

[Walker]

Re: Installing tilt/trim

On some motors you can tilt the motor all the way up and set it on the manual stop. Pull/knock the top pin out of the center ram. Lower the ram back into the tilt unit and maybe you can tilt the unit backwards enough to get to that back screw.

 

[Mark Charlton]

Re: Installing tilt/trim

I used a makeshift 2x4 prop stick - to hold the motor up -
Not a fun project!

 

[JDP]

Re: Installing tilt/trim

OK well I ended up getting a cherry picker whick made it a lot easier. Now I think I have tp ull it back out and rebuild it. All the cylinders worked yesterday when I tested it out of the boat. But today when I had weight on it the tilt cylinder doesn't hold and won't drive up. If I pull the pin that connects it to the motor the cylinder drives fine. Just won't lift the weight of the motor. I went to the local boat shop and they told me not to even mess with it because they said unless you have a special tool you will just tear the o-rings. So then I called a dealer in another town that is closer to the reservoir. They said they can get a rebuild kit for me and said nothing about needing a special tool to install them. The kit is 85 bucks so if anybody knows of any place else I can get this kit. Let me know.

 

[Walker]

Re: Installing tilt/trim

Before you start tearing into it be aware that there are other things that can cause it not to lift the motor. Low fluid level, bad manual release valve, slow turning electric motor, to mention a few.

 

[JDP]

Re: Installing tilt/trim

The fluid level is good. I just replaced it all because the stuff inside when I got it was milky. I'm pretty sure the manual release valve it ok too. When it's tight I cannot lift the motor manually. But when I loosen it I can move the motor. The trim cylinders appear to be working correctly. The motor will rise the length of the trim cylinders, but won't go any higher with the tilt cylinder. If anybody has any other suggestions please let me know.