Adding a tilt switch at rear of boat

[mattwahm]

I have an older boat with a trim tilt switch at the bow of the boat and at the control box next to driver's seat, but no switch near the motor. I'd like to add a switch near the motor. I saw the "tip" below online somewhere, and it seems like a good idea.

Tilt Switch Tip:
"For older boats with no tilt switch on motor, tie into closest tilt switch with length of extension cord. It is usually 12-14 ga. and will do fine. Get a momentary-on switch (20 amp) from local hardware store, find spot on motor to mount it, drill hole in outer casing to fit. Run cable to nearest tilt switch. Wiring usually consists of up, down & power. This will correspond with your 3 wires in the extension cord. It basically puts power from the center pole to one of the other wires for up/down on the DC motor. It receives a ground via the casing on the tilt motor."


Now, this tip refers to the motor “casing”, which I’m assuming is the motor cowling. I have a 1992 Merc 115 and the cowling is plastic, so it will not work as a ground. I’m mildy familiar with electrical work, but I’d like hear your suggestions on the best way to add tilt switch at the back of my boat and how to make it work.

Thanks for the help!
Matt

 

[Silvertip]

Re: Adding a tilt switch at rear of boat

Escept for use of "household grade extension cord" the instructions will work. Use marine grade wire. Locate the wires in the engine wire harness that lead up to the trim switch on the controls. Note the colors. Find them back at the engine and simply tap into them. Where you mount the switch and what the switch looks like (ON-OFF-ON momentary toggle or ON-OFF-ON momentary rocker switch) will dictate where and how its mounted. Your best bet is to go to Radio Shack or a electronics surplus store for the switch. Be sure to use only a MOMENTARY action switch. These always spring back to OFF.

 

[mattwahm]

Re: Adding a tilt switch at rear of boat

Yeah, I forgot to add those same sentiments about the "extension cord"! How is the new switch grounded at the motor?

 

[Texasmark]

Re: Adding a tilt switch at rear of boat

The block is usually the ground reference for OB's since it is common to most things, is the biggest thing there and is made from highly conductive Aluminum.

Lifting a non functional screw (not a head bolt) and inserting a lug beneath will work fine.

One of the finest things the industry finally figured out was to add that switch to the engine. Geez it took international involvement in the marine industry (seems to me like) before domestic producers got the idea.....kinda like getting the quality in the transportation industry.

Mark

 

[mattwahm]

Re: Adding a tilt switch at rear of boat

Great thanks for confirming. This mod should be pretty darn simple then.

 

[Silvertip]

Re: Adding a tilt switch at rear of boat

You don't need a ground with the new switch. There are only only three connections. +12V, up, and down. +12V is the center connector. The tilt/trim motor is grounded.