Expert: Jeff Grigg - 1/9/2008

Question
QUESTION: Jeff,
The motor (1985, 140hp evinrude) will tilt in both directions but cuts out after a few seconds. The more time provided between attempts the greater the distance it will travel.

ANSWER: I would suspect the motor/ hydraulics are binding or the electrical system has some corrosion. Clean all of the wires in the system. I would replace the trim relays/solenoids as well.
Clean and grease the tilt tube so the engine can tilt easily and make sure the hydraulic system is full and has no water in it.
Before you replace the relays/solenoid remove the wires that go directly to the trim motor.
If you have a two wire system touch one to a positive source and the other to ground. Does the trim system work properly without the wires getting hot? If so replace the relays.
If you have a three wire system do the same with one wire being the ground. The blue is up and the green is positive down. If it works well replace the solenoids.
If in either test it works very slow or the wires get overheated, replace the trim motor.
Let me know how it goes if you need additional information.
Jeff

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Jeff,
I replaced the relays (prematurely I guess)and filled the fluid. I connected the trim motor directly to the battery as directed above. I got the same results.... Is it replacement time? if so, do I need to pull the engine off the transom to remove the trim motor!!!? I can't see how to get to that trim motor mounting screw against the transom. Thanks

Answer
Tasch, yes the motor has to be pulled. It makes a relatively simple job a chore. You will need the proper engine hoist and lifting ring.
Be very careful removing the screws as they can break off very easily.
When replacing the trim motor use a new gasket and have plenty of rags for the overflowing trim fluid. If it is red use Dextron ATF.
When reassembling make sure the motor indexes with the cam and replace the mounting screws with stainless steel 3/8" head shoulder bolts. I also put a little Permetex Aviation gasket maker on the bolts to prevent corrosion.
Jeff