Problem lowering outdrive (Alpha 1)

[lenny2113]

Good evening,<br /><br />I have a problem lowering the outdrive (Alpha 1).<br />It goes up without a problem, but when I try to lower it. it moves a little and stops, and pump stops running also while I keep holding the switch for the trim (down). I use ATF fluid for tilt/trim pump and I see that the fluid level drops. I spent some time today trying to check if there is a leak, but couldn’t see anything wrong. There was no fluid in the bilge nether in the water near the outdrive. <br />When I added fluid I was able to lower the outdrive. <br />Any suggestions, please?

 

[Trent]

Re: Problem lowering outdrive (Alpha 1)

Wrong fluid.. Time to flush and use the correct fluid. Motor oil....10w30 or40 Depends....<br /><br />You might try removing the trim rams from the outdrive and try moving them and see if they both move. If not. Put a seal kit in them.

 

[lenny2113]

Re: Problem lowering outdrive (Alpha 1)

Trent,<br />The fluid level drops and when I add it, it lowers the drive without a problem.<br /><br />I came to the marine store and asked the guys there what's the correct tilt/trim fluid. They said ATF is the one. You know I feel like changing marina for the next season. <br />Can the level of fluid drop because I used ATF instead of 10w30?<br />And finally, correct me if I'm wrong about the way to flush:<br />Disconnect hydraulic hoses attached to the outdrive and run the pump until no oil comes out of the loose end of the hose. <br /><br />Could this be done while the boat is in the water?<br /><br />Thank you so much for your time and effort!

 

[gsnyder]

Re: Problem lowering outdrive (Alpha 1)

Lenny--my answer should probably be in the "Stupid Humans" forum, but I had a similar problem on a '78 model mercruiser (can't remember the model). After sitting tilted for a time, the drive wouldn't go down. If I added fluid it would work. I noticed fluid had sprayed on the transom on the inside near the hydraulic pump, so I decided, with diagram in hand, to replace the various seals and o-rings. Then I had a brainstorm: why not replace the hydraulic lines at the same time and put the nice woven metal ones on. I ended up with hydraulic fluid all over the inside of the boat, and all over the street by the time I gave up and took the problem to a mechanic. He easily rebuilt the system, installed the new hoses, and I never had another problem. I suspect you have a leak at your pump.

 

[lenny2113]

Re: Problem lowering outdrive (Alpha 1)

Hey 7.5Runner,<br />That's a good one <br /><br />I suspect I have a leak too, but I can't see it, so it makes me wonder <br />This is my first boat and I would really like to learn more about tricks of fixing boats. <br />If I bring the boat to my mechanic, without a doubt the problem will be fixed fast. What bothers me is that I want to learn how to do it myself and will never be able to do so without trying.<br />Thanks to this forum and people who dedicate their time and patience dealing with people like myself analizig their problems, finding best solutions, etc... <br />I believe that I would be able to benefit from getting things done myself and obtain enough knowledge about boats to be able to help others as well. <br /><br />Best regards and Happy boating to all !!!<br /><br />Lenny

 

[lenny2113]

Re: Problem lowering outdrive (Alpha 1)

Some people leave their drives up, some down.<br />Which one is better???<br />May one of the way cause a problem for something?

 

[Trent]

Re: Problem lowering outdrive (Alpha 1)

Lenny.. Is your boat stored in the water? If so and you dont see oil (ATF now) in the boat your leak is most likely a line on the outside. To flush correctly you will need to do as you said by loosening the lines and running the pump and adding more fluid and do it again. (out of the water)<br /><br />Its better to store your drive in the down position. THis keeps the bellows from forming a "set" in them.