Mercruiser outdrive is not moving up or down

[lenny2113]

Hi all,<br />After my 88 Galaxy with 140 Mercruiser got some water in due to bad plug, I now have a problem lowering outdrive. The outrdive lowering motor is running, but the unit won't move.<br />Where should I start looking?<br /><br />I also noticed that a little bit of water is getting into the boat through the shaft that turns when the engine is running. (Not sure what it's called) What should I do?<br /><br />Thanks for your help.

 

[lenny2113]

Re: Mercruiser outdrive is not moving up or down

Mechanic that looked at the problem said the outdrive could have a bad solenoid. How do I know it's that? What is solenoid, where is it located?<br />How much should it cost?<br /><br />Thanks

 

[Trent]

Re: Mercruiser outdrive is not moving up or down

First of all, if you have water comming into the boat around the driveshaft you have a bad rubber bellows. Dont use the boat. Have it fixed or your gimble bearing and u-joints are going to be toast!<br /><br />While the sterndrive is removed for the above repairs have them check your trim cylinders to make sure they are working correctly. If your trim motor is running..Then you dont have a bad solenoid.

 

[lenny2113]

Re: Mercruiser outdrive is not moving up or down

Thank you Trent. As always, you're a great resource.

 

[lenny2113]

Re: Mercruiser outdrive is not moving up or down

Quick question:<br />I have a Mercruiser outdrive on my boat. I know the engine is 3.0L 140HP. I am not sure what outdrive it is. All of these names (Alpha 1) etc... don't make any scense to me.<br />Please, tell me how to find out what outdrive I have.

 

[flashback]

Re: Mercruiser outdrive is not moving up or down

sounds like you have water in the hydrolic system, I would flush the system and refill with fresh oil. can.t tell you exactly how to do it without looking in the manual but then again, if you don.t have one you need to get one. as far as the number on your outdrive, mine has a plate on the upper unit with a serial number. post your number and I'll bet Trent can tell you what it is.......goodluck

 

[Trent]

Re: Mercruiser outdrive is not moving up or down

Most likly you have a Alpha 1.<br /><br />Look at this link.<br /><br /> Drive ID

 

[lenny2113]

Re: Mercruiser outdrive is not moving up or down

Trent, <br />I think you're right. My outdrive looks the same and it is 1988. So, Alpha 1 it is. <br />Now, what kind of manual would you say is best for me (4cyl Merc engine and Alpha 1 outdrive?)<br />Thanks again,<br />Lenny

 

[Trent]

Re: Mercruiser outdrive is not moving up or down

OEM.. Is the only way to go.<br /><br />Just to make sure its an Alpha 1. Look at the end of the propshaft and see if its got a "A or M" stamped on it. If its not stamped its for shure an Alpha 1.

 

[lenny2113]

Re: Mercruiser outdrive is not moving up or down

Thanks, I almost got "SELOC" manual today, gave it a second thought and decided I better ask <br />Appreciate your help<br />Lenny

 

[lenny2113]

Re: Mercruiser outdrive is not moving up or down

Trent,<br />What do you think about this boat?<br /><br /> http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=1850195005

 

[Trent]

Re: Mercruiser outdrive is not moving up or down

Looks like a nice rig from the pics. However Iv never bought anything off of e-bay and not quite shure how it all works. I would inspect the transom for rot along with the stringers. Check engine compression along with a sea trial. Look for water in the lower unit. How old are the manafolds and risers? Was it ever a saltwater boat? At present the price looks good. <br />I know a guy that bought a small airplane back six months ago site unseen (from e-bay). When it got here it cost him 1/2 again more to get it airworthy again. $20,000.00 is a big ouch

 

[bbracken]

Re: Mercruiser outdrive is not moving up or down

If you're still having problems with the trim hydraulics, I'll offer some advice. I'm a newbie, but I just finished fixing mine. If you hear the hydraulic pump running, the relays are okay. They use relays because the motor draws rather high amperage and it's not a good idea to run all those amps through the wiring to and from the switches and the switch itself. Also, if the motor runs, the limit switch is okay. Thus it's a hydraulic problem. First, top off the oil reservoir at the pump. Mine calls for 10w-30 or 10-40 oil, but some use power steering fluid. Run the motor both directions and recheck the fluid level. If the fluid keeps disappearing, look in the bilge or on the water around the transom for oil. This would point to a leak in the hoses (which is what happened to me) or blown seals in the cylinder. Also, listen to the pump. It should make a loud, but smooth hum or groaning noise. If it sounds like nuts and bolts, it's pumping air.<br /><br />Good luck, and let us know how the story ends.