Re: 83 omc tilt clutch pack
You shouldn't be able to move the clutch by hand. It's for if you hit something submerged hard. If you could move it by hand, it'd constantly be coming up in reverse due to the reverse thrust against it.
When you drop the drive down, you need to do it in very short bursts (ie, just tap the switch). It should just bump gently when it's down. If it bangs/slams hard, it could be binding & not coming back up easily enough. This can get worse as the clutch shaft bushings wear and there's more play.
Also grease the pivots regularly & maybe even put a little grease on the quadrant gear (should hold on for a few outings if it's marine grease). A weak battery or corroded connection can also keep it from getting enough juice to lift the drive - that tilt motor really draws some amps.
