Trim Pin/Trilobe Replacement

[cmdworker]

Hi, I have a 2004 Merc Opti 225. You can see in the photos that the trilobe keeps working itself out. It has never came out completely, but, I usually have to gently tap it back down into place with a hammer every 3 or 4 outings. Was looking at replacing it myself, and wondering if there were any pitfalls, things to watch out for, or tips on getting that out, since you can't tap from the back. Also wondering, should I replace the shaft the pin goes through? I was planning on trimming the motor all the way up, and putting the lock in place. Anything else I should know ? Thanks for any help.

 

[Bondo]

Ayuh,.... Welcome Aboard,.... Isn't there supposed to be a snap-ring or circlip there,..??

 

[sam am I]

Merc calls it a "cross pin/retaining pin". If ya look close, It has a fluted shank so when tapped in, it is suppose to stay put with an interference fit. It is a "replaced if removed" pin. The flutes compress down and stick in the hole. Buy a new one, put some lock tight on the flutes and tap it in......It should stay put unless the hole in the trim ram end is somehow out of spec.