'92 Merc 135 tilt trim problem

[jimnlee]

I have a problem I hope someone can help with. I should first say that I am not very versed on working on any outboard motor issues...but I am going to try!

I have a 1992 Merc 135 that the tilt/trim motor has been leaking fluid. It is now out of fluid, the motor still runs when I hit the switch, but nothing happens. This all came about too quickly for me to get it serviced before the engine was "locked" in the down position.

My first problem is that the motor is in the down position and I can't lift it. Someone locally told me there is a large screw on the side of the engine that would release it from the tilt trim and I could then get to the tilt/trim to replace the seals.

Does this sound correct? If so, would anyone be willing to share the details of how to do this to a novice (me)?

Thank you in advance for any guidance you can provide!

Thanks,
Jim

 

[sschefer]

Re: '92 Merc 135 tilt trim problem

Yes, on the starboard side of the swivel bracket the is about a 1" hole down towards the bottom of the side plate. If you look inside you'll see a screwdriver slot. Use a wide blade screwdriver and turn the screw counter clockwise exactly 4 full turns. You can then lift the engine into the full tilt position and use blocking to hold it in place if your engine doesn't have a tilt lock.

 

[jimnlee]

Re: '92 Merc 135 tilt trim problem

Thank you very much!

Is it a very involved project to replace the seals?

Based on the motor running but nothing happening, would you say it is a problem with the seals?

Thanks again for your help!

Jim

 

[sschefer]

Re: '92 Merc 135 tilt trim problem

Thank you very much!

Is it a very involved project to replace the seals?

Based on the motor running but nothing happening, would you say it is a problem with the seals?

Thanks again for your help!

Jim

Certainly if the fluid leaked out then there is a problem with the seals. I have seen one mistake that is common and that's when the fill cap is cross threaded and it leaks. With the engine fully tilted up there is no pressure on the cap but with the engine down that cap has a lot of pressure on it. That's why the warning labe is right next to the fill cap.

If you're lucky then that's all it is. If one cylinder is leaking you should rebuild them all. The seals run about 70.00 for both sets. It's not hard to change them but it's time consuming and you must be absolutely pristine clean when you do it.

You can do it without completely removing the engine from the boat but since this is your first time I suggest you remove it. You can get yourself into some unforgiving positions if you're not familiar with the balance of these engines.

If it was just the motor, it could be changed without removing the engine but it's still a process that needs to be followed.

I suggest you locate a Merc Service Manual (not Seloc or Clymer) before you attempt this.