40 hp Merc Power Trim Issues

[ProTeam Tracker]

This is my first post but here goes.
I have a 98 Tracker 175 with a 40HP Merc. The power tilt and trim sometimes will not work. It sticks in the down position. Especially when I trim down into the trailer bracket. It doesn't want to go back up. I thought it was the switch so I replaced that but it doesn't seem to help. I have checked the fluid levels and everything is good there. I am worried I am going to get stuck somewhere and not be able to fish because I can't get the motor up to get off the trailer. Any ideas or suggestions?

 

[Bob_VT]

Re: 40 hp Merc Power Trim Issues

Welcome to iboats!!

Your biggest enemy is corrosion. I have been there, done that and have the t-shirt. Here is what I have done.

I have gone through every electrical connection on a boat and in the engine too. You can not assume just because it feels tight that it is making proper contact. I remove every connection one at a time and sand the contact with plumbers cloth or 220 sand paper. Then I re-install, make sure it is tight and then I coat with a tiny touch of grease if needed.

I do understand your frustration because my merc did the same thing to me.

IMO that is where I would start. Even the solinoids are attached to "metal" and you thnk they are grounded.... do them too. You do not even need a manual to clean and sand wires.

Good luck.

 

[bryonthefly]

Re: 40 hp Merc Power Trim Issues

Take the motor hood off and trace the wires from the pump motor up to the trim solenoids mounted on the side of the motor. Check the connections and then test with VOM. If they check out ok and your getting power to the pump, its a bad pump motor. You can also apply 12V directly to the pump motor to test. Unplug the pump motor, if its a 2 wire pump one of the wires is up and the other is down.
If you ever find yourself in a situation when the trim quits, there is a bypass relief valve located on the side of the pump housing. Just use a large screwdriver and turn the screw counterclockwise about three turns to release, lift the motor where you want it and retighten and the motor will stay. Be advised, its much easier with 2 people, one on the screwdriver and the other to lift the motor.

 

[ProTeam Tracker]

Re: 40 hp Merc Power Trim Issues

I apperciate the help so far - Thank you.
I have come to the conclusion that it is the pump that needs replacement. Has anyone done this? Is it something that should be attemped at home in the garage or should I just take it in? I hate to do that because the dealer is 2 weeks out in the service dept. and that's the start of tourny season in my part of the country.
Any advice or guidance is apperciated. Thanks

 

[bryonthefly]

Re: 40 hp Merc Power Trim Issues

I apperciate the help so far - Thank you.
I have come to the conclusion that it is the pump that needs replacement. Has anyone done this? Is it something that should be attemped at home in the garage or should I just take it in? I hate to do that because the dealer is 2 weeks out in the service dept. and that's the start of tourny season in my part of the country.
Any advice or guidance is apperciated. Thanks

If its the same as my '93 40hp Mercury its not difficult at all. I picked up a new one on ebay for $90.00 shipped last year and changed it myself.
Its been awhile since ive changed it so I apoligize if I leave anything out.
1. Lift the motor and lock in place with the locking bolt/rod.
2. Trace the wires to the motor and unplug.
3. Remove the four bolts on the bottom of the motor/ reservior assembly.Oil is going to spill out. The back bolts are a little tough to get to, use 1/4 socket set with long extension.
4. Make sure everything is CLEAN.
5. Carefufully install the new assembly making sure the key from motor to pump line up and the O ring seal stays in place, use a little grease to hold the O ring if needed. Plug it in and route the wires.
6. Fill the reservior. Run it full up and down an recheck fluid level.
Thats about it, a pretty strait-forward 2-3 beer job. Good luck.

 

[Deltabound]

Re: 40 hp Merc Power Trim Issues

I have the same motor and similar problem. Where is the screw located to release the pressure? I see a big nut to the right of the pump that looks like it will take a huge screwdriver, is that it?

 

[bryonthefly]

Re: 40 hp Merc Power Trim Issues

Yep, thats it. About 2-3 turns CCW.