Evinrude tilt and trim problem

[Ron Whitnwy]

I have a '78 model 115 hp Evinrude that I just got. It has sat for about three years. With a little work I now have it running great. however, When I use the tilt and trim it will raise but will not lower. After you raise the motor then try to lower it you can hear the motor or whatever supposed to lower it run but nothing happens. I would appreciate any help and advice. JB put a reply on my question in the boating forum suggesting that I may be low on fluid. It is the type of trim unit that the cylinders are under the motor when it is up. JB suggested that I fill it up cycle it a few times let it sit an hour and fill again. There are two cylinders which one do I fill and how will I go about raising and lowering the motor to cycle it when it will not go down? I know there should be a manual lever or something but I am not sure what I am looking for. I do see a plastic lever on the left side of the motor but nothing happens when I work it.<br />Thanks for the help,<br />Ron

 

[12Footer]

Re: Evinrude tilt and trim problem

Does the motor run when you try the "down" trim?<br />Does it click, but no whirr?<br />Does it make absolutely no sound when you try the "down" trim?<br />Have you checked the trim switch itself,and the wires thereto?<br />Was the resevour low to begin with?<br />If the solenoid relay clicks,but no "whirr" of the motor,have you tried a jumper across the big terminals? WATCH FOR STRAY SPARKS HERE.<br />If that corrects it, look for corroded contacts on the solenoid wiring, trim switch not werkin or wire from trims switch to solenoid broken.<br />If all looks in order there,and motor whirrs, replace the solenoid relay.<br />If the motor does not whirr in "trim-down", even when you jump it with a large screw driver, it may be a bad motor (which I doubt,because it werks "up" direction just fine).<br />A cordless dremmel with rotary brush attachment werks better than anything else to clean corrosion from terminals and leads.<br />Use liquid tape on all exposed terminals once you get it bolted-up and runnin right,to waterproof them. Same goes for all the rest of the boat's terminal connections. This stuff is great!<br />I think I'll put "Hey new Boater" post back on top with this sugestion. It really is a lifesaver at sea.

 

[JB]

Re: Evinrude tilt and trim problem

Hi, Ron. The cylinder on the starboard side has the reservoir. About half-way up is a screw type plug. The engine has to be UP to get at it. (That's why they designed it to stall in the UP position when it gets low).<br />Remove the plug, top her off (I can never do this without spilling a bunch), replace the plug and give her a try. She should work, but cycle her a few times and give her a rest (UP) to let any bubbles clear. Then top her up again.<br /><br />If that doesn't work you have used up my knowledge and we'll have to use the book.<br /><br />Good luck.<br />Red sky at night. . . <br />JB

 

[Down South]

Re: Evinrude tilt and trim problem

I agree with J.B. It sure sounds like the unit is low on fluid.<br />