Alpha One Trim Limit Switch

[twerth]

I'm pretty sure I've got a flakey trim limit switch, so I'm shopping for parts online. I'm seeing prices for a pair of switches anywhere from $25 to $150. Is there that much of a difference in quality? What are some good, reputable online vendors? Thanks.

 

[BillK2632]

That’s one thing I would stick with the OEM Mercruiser switches. I used a lot of Sierra parts on my Mercruiser - generally had good success with them - but the trim switches were a bit flakey. Hard to get them adjusted and the guage (sender) never worked that well. Problem is it is a PIA to swap them - I no longer have that boat, but I would go with OEM if I did.

 

[Lazy Daze]

Yeah, best bet on this one is Mercruiser brand. Do you have a local Mercury or Mercruiser shop nearby? It's always good to support local businesses (when feasible). It helps if, in the future, you "need" them for something, too!

 

[cnollego]

Could be a couple of things. Take the cover off and inspect. ***before doing this mark each orientation***

Might simply be dirty and need a cleaning. Clean the contacts and pack it with dielectric grease.

If that doesn't do it, based on the age of the boat it could be the wires running up through the gimbal housing. Mine were deteriarating but the sensors themselves were fine. I spliced in new wiring because I didn't feel like replacing everything. Worked fine and has continued to for the past few years. I'm in St. Charles, MO. Where do you boat?

 

[twerth]

I've read about cleaning the switches and I'll probably give that a try, but the insulation on the wires appears to be deteriorating as well. It sounds like this is a pretty involved operation, so I don't want to do it twice. Probably well worth the expense to get the OEM stuff the first time. I'll have to check around and see if I've got a local supplier. I'm new to the boating community, although I've had wave runners for the last 5-6 years.

I'm in the KC area, so we're on the opposite sides of the state. I usually go to Smithville Lake, but I'm hoping to get to Tablerock once or twice this summer.

Thanks for all the input!

 

[cnollego]

Cool...we drag ours to TRL a few times a year as well.

 

[Maggieiscrazy]

my trim sender went bad a couple years ago. I ordered a cheap Chinese replacement for $25. It came with both the trim sender and trim limit. I cut the wires connected them with a butt connector and coated it with liquid electric tape. It’s been good so far. If I was going to do the job of replacing the entire unit with wire I would certainly go with genuine Mercruiser parts.