Temp. fix for tilt switch

[guy48065]

My tilt & trim switch on the remote handle (Evinrude, Johnson 96-up) is intermittent in the "up" direction.
Replacements are no longer available so I took it apart to try to fix it. I was surprised to find that it isn't broke, solder is good, no loose or broke wires, no corrosion, no pitted contacts.
It seemed the only issue was the spring-copper "see-saw" inside was weak or bent so the rocker actuator couldn't cause it to make contact.

I tried several times to get it to work, with no success.
There is also a rubber seal inside that was in pieces so I figured even if I got it to function it wouldn't last long.

So I swapped in a momentary toggle mounted to a small piece of aluminum flashing. This was trimmed to fit the recess and held secure with a couple pieces of rubber hose to fill the space behind it.

 

[guy48065]

I hate that the only option is to replace the handle with an overpriced new one when all I need is a $10 switch.

A big reason the replacement handle is so expensive is it includes 2 new Deutsch connectors and those are very expensive--probably costs as much as the handle & switch. Seriously.
OMC should just include a 5-cent pin extractor in the kit since in most cases there's nothing wrong with the original connector.

 

[Scott Danforth]

deutsch connectors and pins are actually cheap (we use them every day at work).

nothing wront with your fix if it works.

 

[guy48065]

Cheap compared to what? The M/F 3-pin pair I just bought from my wholesaler cost me $20 (DT series). Similar weather-sealed connectors from Weather Pack or Metri Pack would have been under $5.