Rust on tilt/trim problem

[bryanredfish]

Just noticed a spot of rust about the size of a quarter on the electric motor section of the t/t. Anyone else noticed this on their motor? Just wondering if/how I should take care of this. The outboard in question is a 2002 Merc 90. Thanks.

[Bob Kimber]

Hi BryanredfishI have no problem on my 2000 merc 90 (only run in saltwater), but if you have even the slightest damage to the paint on any steel surface corrosion is always a possibility. I once saw a 90 merc with a crack in the paint finish on the steel nut on lower mount, the same side as the earth wire back to lower unit. Slight surface rust was beginning on the nut, the rust was cleaned off and nut treated with rust neutraliser then repainted, problem has never re-occurred.Talk to local hardware shop, they will stock some sort of rust neutraliser usually you clean the surface then paint with product, leave it for a specified time then wash off and let dry, repaint area with primer and Merc paint where necessary.Have you also checked for electrolysis, you should have a earth lead running from your trim pump base to the anode on the bottom of the transom bracket, maybe you need to clean/check connections on wire or under anode where it mounts to bracket. Bob