Brake line used for Tilt n Trim?

[Rickus]

I have a bent, leaking rigid tilt/trim line on my Tohatsu M60A and wonder if I can just buy a steel brake line from the auto parts store to replace it? They say that I can use a tube bender and make the right length work to go from the pump to the ram. Any reason I can't do that rather than order a new line from a marine supply? I search the forums and can't find a post addressing this issue.


Thanks

 

[Sea Rider]

Re: Brake line used for Tilt n Trim?

Yes you can do that and even place line inside a plastic transparent tight sleeve for extra water corrosion protection. Check if there's a heavy duty brake line.

Happy Boating

 

[pvanv]

Re: Brake line used for Tilt n Trim?

Or use ss brake line tubing for more corrosion resistance.

 

[Rickus]

Re: Brake line used for Tilt n Trim?

Thanks, guys. I'm heading to the auto parts store as soon as I figure out how to get a wrench on the other end of the fitting that goes into the bottom of the ram cylinder, which is hidden by a bracket that holds the pivot pin for both cylinders. Hope I don't have to dismount that heavy motor.

 

[Rickus]

Re: Brake line used for Tilt n Trim?

Fixed it! Tilt works like it should now. Couldn't find a brake line the exact length, so got one about 3" too long and put a loop in it with a tube bender and made it fit. I found a thread on iBoats forum that told how to bleed the hydraulic lines and everything works fine now. I guess even a greenhorn to outboards can fix a few things with good advice. I'm ready to fish again. Thanks fellas.