1977 Johnson Tilt and Trim Problems, UGH!

[Shippy1985]

We are going nuts out here in Northwestern Illinois. We just purchased a brand new OEM tilt and trim motor for our 1977 Glastron bass boat with a 1977 Johnson 85HP. However, it will not TILT UP! It sounds fine going down, but there is absolutely nothing when we try to tilt it up, no sounds no clicks not a thing!

We are thinking there is an issue in the solenoid, but I replaced that last summer, so it is brand new. So, does anyone have any clue as to why this thing will not tilt up? Like I said, brand new OEM tilt n trim motor. Another question, is it absolutely necessary for this tilt n trim system to be wired through the solenoid? Or can we bypass it?

Thanks for any and all help. We are really frustrated right now!

 

[Shippy1985]

Re: 1977 Johnson Tilt and Trim Problems, UGH!

Update: Ok, we bypassed the solenoid and connected the tilt n trim wiring harness directly. The tilt n trim motor now goes both ways. HOWEVER, now, it does not move the actual motor up and down. The cylinders will not move. Yes, we have filled the reservoir up as high as possible with tilt n trim fluid. But nothing is moving.

 

[alwaysneedhelp]

Re: 1977 Johnson Tilt and Trim Problems, UGH!

i have the same boat and motor, and the same problems

 

[Will Bark]

Re: 1977 Johnson Tilt and Trim Problems, UGH!

Have you closed your manual release valve located on the starboard transom bracket? You can see it thru the hole on the outside of the bracket.

 

[paul2112]

Re: 1977 Johnson Tilt and Trim Problems, UGH!

Hello, I have the same setup as you,,,anychance you can post pics of your solenoid and pump unit? Thanks

 

[85 BOMBER]

Re: 1977 Johnson Tilt and Trim Problems, UGH!

You will likely have to "bleed" the system like you would a brake caliper on a car. I had the same problem a couple years ago. Put as much fluid in as possible, then try to raise and lower the unit all the way up and all the way back down. Then loosen, not remove, but loosen the fill plug and listen for a "hissing" sound coming from it. If you hear this, you have air in the system and it will have to be "bled". Let me know what you find.