79 Johnson Trim/Tilt Problem

[doomer23]

We can hear the purr of the trim/tilt motor trying to tilt down, but the engine doesn't move. When we tilt up, we can not hear anything. There isn't a clicking sound when we trim down. It sounds normal when we trim down, it's just that nothing happens. Does this sound like a trim motor problem? Hydraulics or electrical?

 

[Hooty]

Re: 79 Johnson Trim/Tilt Problem

If you can hear the pump run but nothing happens, I'd check the hydraulic fluid level first.<br /><br />c/6<br /><br />Hooty

 

[doomer23]

Re: 79 Johnson Trim/Tilt Problem

how do you check the fluid and fill it. johnson<br />tilt and trim 1979-1980

 

[Joe Reeves]

Re: 79 Johnson Trim/Tilt Problem

Doomer.... Have engine tilted up to its extreme up position. Remove the filler screw plug from the reservoir opposite the electric motor. Fill the reservoir to its overflow point. Re-install the filler screw plug (be sure the "O" ring is still on back of that screw plug).

 

[doomer23]

Re: 79 Johnson Trim/Tilt Problem

Thanks for your help. We filled the reservoir with oil but now the engine will only tilt down it will not tilt up. We want to look at the switch but can not figure out how to open it up. Do you know how to open the handle up to inspect the switch?

 

[petryshyn]

Re: 79 Johnson Trim/Tilt Problem

What size of engine?<br /><br />The easiest way to check the switch is to check its output to the relay box. This way you likely won't have to take the control apart. Do you have a voltmeter or 12v test light?