How high is too high? (tilt/trim question)

[Milemaker13]

I have a 165 in line six with an MC-1. Wondering how high I can raise the out drive in gear.
Can I, for example, raise it high enough to run at lower RPM thru low water areas?

 

[Bt Doctur]

If the matching arms on the drive are NOT contained by the arms with the arrows the drive can twist off the transom.

Why would you even want to consider operating in shallow water? If you had to exceed the limit you are limited to idle rom only and very little turning radius.

 

[stonyloam]

FYI it does not matter wether or not the outdrive is in gear. The driveshaft is turning whenever the engine is running and if you raise the outdrive too high at too high RPM you can possibly damage your U-joints.

 

[achris]

I have had my drive in the full UP position when crossing a sand bar. As long as the uni joints and gimbal bearing are in good condition and the engine alignment is spot on, no harm if you do not exceed idle (which can be 'exciting' when the waves are coming in behind you )...... Try not to make too much steering input (try and keep the drive as straight as possible. Again, makes for some 'interesting' comments from the passengers as the waves are pushing you sideways...)...

Chris......

 

[Milemaker13]

Good point. The shaft turns when the engine runs, weather in gear or not.
I will take a look at my drive to familiarize with the arms you pictured. That is very good info to have. Thank you.

Ps. Mostly the desire comes from suddenly finding ourselves in shallower areas, and wanting to turn around and go back. Lol. Still learning how to run the i/o properly. Always had outboard on small boats I could row right up into the beach.