Tilt and trim switch

[triple m outfitters]

I have a 50hp MD 50 Tohatsu (jet). Intermittently while tilting or trimming the engine up (hitting the switch up) the engine will continue going up even after I've let off the switch. This morning while coming into shore I tilted the engine up just a few inches to avoid scraping the engine, the motor went to full tilt even though I only hit the switch to rise it a few inches. The tilt continued even with the the key off. Recently I changed both up and down solenoids but never changed the tilt trim switch. How do you check this switch? Is the switch easy to change? What else could this problem be?

 

[pvanv]

Are you talking about the TT sw on the motor, or the one in the handle of the control box? Both are 12v SPDT momentary switches, and any reasonably competent electrical service guy can test them. I believe the one on the motor is live even with the key off, while the one in the control handle is likely switched off with the key.

 

[triple m outfitters]

Thanks for the reply, this is in the handle, it seems that when I move the throttle forward to increase speed the engine will involuntarily start to tilt upwards. It doesn't happen all the time. Today with the engine full down I started it, moved the throttle to forward not touching the tilt trim switch the engine came completely out of the water. Turning the key off didn't stop it. I'm going to change the switch and follow the wires to the engine to ensure no bad connectors. I'm a guide, losing a day on the water is costly, thought I could solve this on my own. Thanks again for your reply.

 

[pvanv]

Sounds like the wiring from the middle section of the box up to the top of the handle has some chafing.

 

[gm280]

Most switches are basically open until you switch them. Then they make a connection and allow voltage to pass. Seems you have a wiring issue with your switch wires or even a switch sticking. It really should be a simple thing to figure out and fix... Either a new switch or fix the bare wires touching each other... JMHO!

 

[triple m outfitters]

Thanks Paul and gm280 for your responses. I have a much needed day off the water tomorrow, I plan on tearing into this and get it fixed. Not much mechanical I can't fix, when it comes to electrical I always need a helping hand Thank you for helping!