Alpha 1 Gen 2 trim pressure line leak - help!

[ckaiser]

I'm looking at buying a used 1998 Wellcraft 175 SX, Mercruiser 4.3 Alpha 1 Gen 2 with power trim. Apparently one of the pressure lines is leaking fluid down into the bilge. As I ask around, I'm getting different answers as to what needs to happen for me to fix it. I'm a retired auto mechanic and can do just about anything around a vehicle, so I'm not worried about some work.

One marine shop says it's a couple hour job to pull the lines, get them rebuilt or replaced, then put them back in. Disconnect at pump and block, change them out.

Another shop says I have to pull the engine to change these out.

Can anyone give me a definite answer about what I need to do here? Pulling an engine is going to be a deal breaker, or at least a serious price adjustment.

I don't have a service manual yet. Will buy one if I buy the boat, but if anyone has a pdf... ;-)

Thanks!
Charlie

 

[Bt Doctur]

Re: Alpha 1 Gen 2 trim pressure line leak - help!

page 6-8 in here http://www.boatfix.com/merc/Techbk/97/97hs6.pdf
Remove the block at the transom where the 4 lines connect, pull block down for access to lines.

 

[cr2k]

Re: Alpha 1 Gen 2 trim pressure line leak - help!

It's still a major pita but you can do it sans pulling the engine. DO NOT FORGET to tie a fish line on each of the hydraulic hoses when you remove them. This will keep it to a one day job without pulling the engine. Don't forget to put the gasket on the block before you attach the new line/s.

 

[Bondo]

Re: Alpha 1 Gen 2 trim pressure line leak - help!

Remove the block at the transom where the 4 lines connect, pull block down for access to lines.

Ayuh,... 2, 1/4" nuts, 7/16" 6-point socket...
laying on yer back in the driveway, lookin' straight Up....

Hopefully, it ain't too corroded....

 

[ckaiser]

Re: Alpha 1 Gen 2 trim pressure line leak - help!

OK, this is starting to look a bit more hopeful. Thanks...

Next question is, how do I identify the hoses to get the correct ones? I tried to get a S/N off the outdrive, but the last part of the sticker is worn away.

Should I consider rebuilding these lines or just replace them?


Any purchase location recommendations?

Thanks!

Charlie

 

[Bondo]

Re: Alpha 1 Gen 2 trim pressure line leak - help!

Should I consider rebuilding these lines or just replace them?

Ayuh,... Just replace 'em....

Cruise the parts listings, 'n follow whichever Pump you're got...
There's not alota differences...