Tilt/Trim Issue 1989(?) Force 85 Model 853K9C

[HunterC]

Hello all,

My 1989 Force 85hp model 853K9C is having a trim issue; It trims up beautifully, flies right up like a new motor. However, immediately after letting off the trim up it begins to decend, approx 10 seconds from fully up to fully down. There is no external leak.

Could any of you fine folks please recommend some first steps to diag & repair? Its brand new to me, it starts up like nothing and runs like a top looks incredibly clean inside the cowl. I think it has been very well cared for, however I am also interested to hear any recommendations you have for additional first maintenance to be done, I’ve heard I should replace the impeller and spark plugs right away.. I’m certainly open to additional preventative maintenance if needed - I’d like to do this right. I’m looking to keep this engine running a long whlie and hope to get off to a good start.

If you have a recommendation for where to get the appropriate parts that’d be awesome, this is all new to me.

Thank you so very much for your time, it is truly appreciated more than you may imagine.

 

[HunterC]

Any insight is appreciated, big or just a little tidbit or thought. Thanks!

 

[Jiggz]

First of all, congrats on a very nice find on this well maintained and well kept motor. As for the Tilt & Trim (T&T) troubleshooting, first things first, DO NOT DISASSEMBLE THE PUMP OR DISMOUNT THE MOTOR. Most likely the leak is from the check valves in the valve body (VB) or O rings in the tilt cylinder. Here's a link on how to tackle this, T&T Troubleshooting
Do read through all the posts and then purchase the parts before starting the repair.
As for maintenance, check the gear oil on the lower unit make sure it is bright and shiny. If not replace it. Again, make sure you read on how to do this there is a screw on the gear housing that is for the shift linkage and should not be confused for a drain screw. DO NOT MESS WITH THIS SCREW!!! Lastly, check the lube chart on where to apply grease on the motor critical part is the kingpost and also the starter and flywheel gears.