Adding tilt and trim to a 1973 Johnson 135

mv6767

Cadet
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Feb 12, 2009
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I have a 1973 Johnson 135 that I would like to add tilt and trim to. Is this even feasable and if so would using the mount assembly off a newer model be the route to go?
 

F_R

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Jul 7, 2006
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28,195
Re: Adding tilt and trim to a 1973 Johnson 135

The factory kit for that motor was a hang-on contraption that was not the greatest thing ever made. I suppose there may be a used one out there somewhere, but you would have to ensure you are getting the whole thing. Personally, I'd discourage it.

I don't know if there is an aftermarket kit for it or not. You might check into going that route.
 

boobie

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Re: Adding tilt and trim to a 1973 Johnson 135

Try CMC.com. 800-654-3697. They make an after market one and probably better than the OMC original.
 

boobie

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Re: Adding tilt and trim to a 1973 Johnson 135

I've installed a few of them and they work real good and are much simpler than the factory one.
 
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monk-monk

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Aug 27, 2006
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642
Re: Adding tilt and trim to a 1973 Johnson 135

mv6767, I have a lot of experience with tilt an trim, especially with the Mercury set-ups. I recently acquired a 1973 Johnson 135 that I am rebuilding. Like all '73 135's it had no power trim, so I decided to install a tilt trim system on it. I was able to locate a system that needed a little work. I rebuilt it and have it installed an operating great! Im glad I did it! I can give you a lot of insight about these systems! More than happy to assist you!
 

Faztbullet

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Mar 2, 2008
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15,619
Re: Adding tilt and trim to a 1973 Johnson 135

Is this even feasable and if so would using the mount assembly off a newer model be the route to go?
As posted either the OEM or CMC aftermarket. A newer model wont fit as difference in clamp bracket and motor mounts on lower midsection..:blue:
 

monk-monk

Chief Petty Officer
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Aug 27, 2006
Messages
642
Re: Adding tilt and trim to a 1973 Johnson 135

fazt is correct...and the total cost comes down to: how good is your mechanical aptitude, your resources for finding an OEM system that can be rebuilt and also a resource for obtaining parts at a reasonable price. Otherwise, you shell out the big bucks for a CMC! I was very surprised the '73 already had the mounting bosses in the swivel bracket, even though it never came with PT&T!
 

emdsapmgr

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Dec 9, 2005
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11,551
Re: Adding tilt and trim to a 1973 Johnson 135

The factory first made a power tilt/trim in 1973, so it is possible to retrofit a factory unit to your engine. 65 thru 135 hp. FR has described it well. I ran a couple of those units and while unusual looking, they worked well. You can find them around, just be sure you get all the pcs. They've been out of production for many, many years-so some of the electronic replacement parts are getting really hard to find. You may find it cheaper to buy a junk engine just for the trim unit.
 

F_R

Supreme Mariner
Joined
Jul 7, 2006
Messages
28,195
Re: Adding tilt and trim to a 1973 Johnson 135

As you can see, the 1973 PTT kit was rather complicated. Yes, the motor is all set up for it because it is a factory accessory kit.
 

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