89 Mercury 4hp motor question

[gh338]

I bought a used 89 mercury 4 hp motor and I am wondering how does it lock in place when you tilt it down? I see the spring handle on the side to tilt it, but in order to latch on the pin it seems to only latch down when you out the gear into reverse. Is this normal? I have never seen one work like this. Any help would be appreciated!

Thanks

 

[gh338]

Re: 89 Mercury 4hp motor question

It should lock on to the tilt pin correct? I know with my 40hp mariner you tilt the motor down until it locks in place. I have never owned a small outboard like this 4hp so any help would be appreciated.