HELP!!!! mercruiser sterndrive TRIM problems

gmoody

Cadet
Joined
Apr 7, 2008
Messages
6
Hello,
I recently purchased a 24' boat with twin GM 120hp 4 cylinder blocks that have twin mercruiser stern drives. I am having problems with trimming both stern drives up and down. The trim cylinder motors have been rebuilt and seem to be in like-new condition. They have plenty of fluid in them. Actually, when you push the trim button (either up or down) you can hear it spinning (working)- it just isn't grabbing the sterndrive to raise or lower it properly. It will trim, but not always on command. You have to push, stop, push, stop, push etc.... and it moves, but still does not go all the way up or down.
Does anyone have any ideas as to what the problem might be?
Please help me out.
Thanks.
 

vipzach

Lieutenant
Joined
Feb 15, 2005
Messages
1,283
Re: HELP!!!! mercruiser sterndrive TRIM problems

Are the drives spongy? Meaning, can you push the drive down with your hand? If so, you might try bleeding the lines. If air is in them, they won't work very well!
 

gmoody

Cadet
Joined
Apr 7, 2008
Messages
6
Re: HELP!!!! mercruiser sterndrive TRIM problems

OK. i'll test that out! thanks for the help!!!!! any other ideas?????
 

rocket1968

Petty Officer 2nd Class
Joined
Feb 18, 2008
Messages
125
Re: HELP!!!! mercruiser sterndrive TRIM problems

I had a similar symtom and had to flush mine last year due to contaminants and a small leak. Once I fixed the leak, I bled them like a brake line, (someone will chime in if I was wrong or not). Also make sure you are at the right fill mark. If the motor ptich changes when utilizing (higher RPM's) you could have air or not enough fluid.
 
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