Newbie - need advice on Trim Tilt for 1972 Merc 50 HP

[buckhornbob]

Just bought my first boat, motor, trailer combo - an oldie but I hope a goodie.
Outboard is a 1972 Mercury 50 HO Serial # 3177031.

I have been asked by a few folks if it has power tilt and trim and the answer is no. Now I am curious about what it might take to install this as an after-market feature.

I did not spend much on this so I really don't want to throw a lot of $$$ at it - at least not until I learn a lot more about the whole world of boating.

Questions are these:

1. Is there an after market kit?
2. Should I be able to find a used kit?
3. Is there a better possibility if I bought a variety of used parts and put them together? I have read a bit about pumps, cylinders, mounts, motors etc. and would rellay like to know everything that is needed if I choose this option.

Thanks for any insights
Bob

 

[buckhornbob]

Re: Newbie - need advice on Trim Tilt for 1972 Merc 50 HP

BUMP

Sure was hoping to hear from some older Merc' experts.

 

[hsi111]

Re: Newbie - need advice on Trim Tilt for 1972 Merc 50 HP

Bob, I would say that the only way to do that is to find a bad motor of your type with t&t for very cheap and the odds of that are not good. There is a listing of a few salvage yards under "Sticky: FAQ For Mercury/Mariner Outboards" at the beginning of these threads. Forget trying to piece mill one. No after market kits that I know of. Personally, I would enjoy my first boat as you bought it and if you ever upgrade, think about the t&t next time. Happy Boating.... Rick

 

[oldman570]

Re: Newbie - need advice on Trim Tilt for 1972 Merc 50 HP

The cheapest way to make the motor a tilt/ trim unit , is to just buy a CNC or similar aftermarket tilt/trim and bolt the units together. A look on Ebay might get you a good used unit or shop around at dealerships for a used one. A new CNC unit is normally over 700$$ at most dealers. Used Merc units can be found, but the shape of the hoses, pump, and cylinder's might be of concern because of age and use. This can make repairing them more costly than a new aftermarket unit. JMO
Oldman570

 

[eggs712]

Re: Newbie - need advice on Trim Tilt for 1972 Merc 50 HP

You could also just get a hydraulic jack plate that would let you trim/tilt the motor.

 

[buckhornbob]

Re: Newbie - need advice on Trim Tilt for 1972 Merc 50 HP

Thanks folks
Looks like it might cost more than I paid for the boat, motor and trailer.

Worth keeping my eyes open

 

[racerone]

Re: Newbie - need advice on Trim Tilt for 1972 Merc 50 HP

Most dealers know the demand for these units.----They are priced accordingly.-------Best to find a donor motor / boat via craiglist or similar.