Up/out trim problems.

[MahtyMaht]

1988 Merc 454, Bravo 1, got the trim pump running, but the up/out trim button doesn't work. Trailer button, (separate switch), does work. Down button does work. It's the same solenoid firing the pump motor, whether it's switched by the trim or trailer button, right? That suggests to me that the solenoid is probably fine, and I've probably just got a bad connection, or a dud wire somewhere, huh? And what limits up/out travel under trailer switching? I'm scared of scragging something, as I don't have the trim limit switch or tilt gauge hooked up. I can't tell which black wire pair from the transom assembly is which.

 

[zbnutcase]

Re: Up/out trim problems.

If you dont have the trim limit switch connected, then you need to jump the harness where it connects for the up switch to work

 

[MahtyMaht]

Re: Up/out trim problems.

'Preciate that tip, ZB - Do I have to worry that I'll trash the outdrive running it with out the switch? It is hooked up at the bullet connectors back there, but that trim switch has never worked since the kid got the boat.

 

[stonyloam]

Re: Up/out trim problems.

OK, your down works, and your trailer works. Your solenoids are OK. I think you know that your problem is the trim limit circuit. What you need to do is find the two black wires coming from the limit switch (near transom). One goes into a connector with a purple/white wire, the other into a connectortor with two blue/white wires. Unplug the black wires, and jumper between the two connectors. Try the up trim. If it works your control handle switch is OK. Now take a look at the port side of the gimbal ring where your trim limit switch is located. Take a close look at the black wires to see if there are any obvious breaks or bare spots. If the wires look OK, you can take the cover off of the switch (4 screws) and take a look at the contact arm. It is probably corroded and not making contact. You may be able to clean it up and get it working again. Until then your up/trailer switches will work but with no limit, so be careful. Good luck.

 

[MahtyMaht]

Re: Up/out trim problems.

Made a little jumper with bullets, now the handle switch will run the outdrive up and down. Thanx zb and stony.