Tilt trim fluid pink, frothy

[gr8rg8r]

I had the pistons and seals replaced on my 1997 Yamaha SWS II engines last year. The other day, one engine was struggling to raise or lower. The motor was running but no progress. The engine could be raised or lowered once the pressure relief valve was loosened.<br /><br />I raised the engine and checked the fluid. The boat was on the lift and more or less level, but may have been a little low in the stern. There was considerable pressure when I removed the filler cap and pink, frothy fluid oozed out. I raised and lowered the engine as much as it would raise and lower, a couple of inches, several times and each time there was air pressure built up.<br /><br />Tomorrow, I intend to raise the stern some and try to fill the reservoir.<br /><br />My questions:<br /><br />1. I had read somewhere that pink fluid was a sign of water intrusion. True?<br /><br />2. Would the fluid flow out if a boat was floating?<br /><br />3. Will adding new fluid and raising and lowering engine and bleeding air out do any good?<br /><br />Thanks in advance

 

[rodbolt]

Re: Tilt trim fluid pink, frothy

with the engine in the full up position add fluid to the bottom of the fill port threads. replace the cap. run the tilt down and back up. repeat as needed. you may have to let it rest in the full up position an hour or so to let the air bubbles settle out. the pink froth is usually air trapped in the fluid but it could have water contamination. without seeing it its hard to tell. the air is normal. as the system fills with oil the air it displaces has to go someplace.

 

[gr8rg8r]

Re: Tilt trim fluid pink, frothy

Rodbolt,<br /><br />I did as you said but what a PITA! Because my boat is on a lift, I had to use a comealong to tilt the engine. After several efforts of filling the reservoir, tilting up and down, refilling the reservoir, letting the air escape, repeat, repeat, repeat, I finally got the engine to go up and down on its own.<br /><br />Now, my only questions are:<br /><br />1. There was a little bit of fluid around the seal of the tilt cylinder. I am sure there is not supposed to be ANY leakage, but is a little leakage "normal"? Or should I have this seal replaced again. It was replaced about 6 or 8 months (100 hours use) ago. Or, should I expect to "top off" the tilt/trim fluid regularly.<br /><br />2. As I raise and lower the engine now, there is some air escape when I open the fill cap. Is this normal? Or am I still working the air out? Will all the air eventually work its way out?<br /><br />Finally, PM me your postal service address; I want to send you a small token of my appreciation. <br /><br />Richard