No latch to hold kicker in up position?

[proslambanomenos]

Hello folks,

I recently acquired the following:

Johnson: 6HP Seahorse
model: 6r-71e
year: 1971
serial: J3374393

I want to use this for trolling. When I'm not trolling, I want it up and out of the water so it doesn't disrupt the performance of my main outboard. When I tilt it up, there is no latch that secures it in the up position. There appears to be some heavy friction, possibly from a heavy spring, that keeps it up there, but if it is a spring it's old and "tired" so it doesn't hold it terribly firmly. With the inertia of a quick start from my main outboard or even the regular bumps of cruising speed, I'm sure it will slip back down.

I'm wondering if this thing ever had a latch, or if there's some way to secure it "up" when it's not in use while out on the water.

Thanks, if any of you have any answers and advice!

 

[1946Zephyr]

Re: No latch to hold kicker in up position?

I've seen people make wooden blocks that they strap in to keep the kickers up high away from the water. Just pull your motor up and stick the block in there. Use a bunjee cord to help keep it in place though.

 

[Vic.S]

Re: No latch to hold kicker in up position?

I think the latch (at least on the 6hp) first appeared in the early 1980s.

However there is a friction bush which will hold it to some extent if you tighten the nut on the tilt pivot bolt.

 

[F_R]

Re: No latch to hold kicker in up position?

I think the latch (at least on the 6hp) first appeared in the early 1980s.

However there is a friction bush which will hold it to some extent if you tighten the nut on the tilt pivot bolt.

Yes, note the bolt that goes through the tilt "hinge". Just snug up a bit on the nut. There are tapered bushings in there. The tighter you make the nut, the harder it is to tilt and un-tilt.

 

[proslambanomenos]

Re: No latch to hold kicker in up position?

sweet. i will try that. thanks!