Re: Force 50 tilt/trim
Generally, when a relay "clicks" it is because it is not getting enough voltage. --Like when the battery is almost dead on your car and the start solenoid just clicks without the starter turning over. An itermittent problem could be traced to a loose connection that due to vibration will sometimes make good contact and other times not. So, the first thing to check is the power to the relays--check for loose connections or corrosion where the red power wires connect to a 12 volt source. and where the ground wires are terminated. Bad grounding causes a lot of problems. If they have quick connect fittings, check them too. Check for a defective switch and corrosion on the terminals. --just jump 2 legs of the switch ---center is usually hot and supplies power to the other two terminals. SO, if the trim functions in both directions reliably when you jump the switch terminals, then the switch is bad.
Then, since one relay serves as default ground when the other is energised, replace BOTH relays. That way you avoid the hassle of trying to determine which relay is bad. However, save yourself money--do not replace relays until all other avenues have been proven OK.
By the way, if you have a junkyard near you, those relays can be found in most Buicks and some Chevys from 80s to 90s. And if it is a junkyard that charges admission and lets you walk through (U pull it) then the relays are free. Five finger discount into the pocket. They really don't care about little stuff like that.Any time I am in a junkyard, I take a couple of relays, a few taillights, and a couple of fuses. Having a little "stash" is a lot better than having to run out to the auto store.
If you want to buy new, an electrical supply shop can get them for you at about 17 bucks each.
