Intermittent trim switch problems

Smile Maker

Member
Apr 22, 2008
236
Guntersville AL
Boat Info
06 220 SD 5.0L
Engines
5.0L MPI Alpha I
Hello forum,

I have an intermittent problem trimming up my outdrive. It never seems to have a problem going down, but sometimes won't respond to the command to trim up from the shift lever switch. Was an infrequent problem last year but seems to be getting more prevalent.

Any suggestions to help isolate the faulty part - shifter trim switch or trim limiter on outdrive? Other?

Thanks for your advice.

-JH
 
I would think the solenoid for the up movement is the issue. They do go bad over time. $13 replacement if you order online.
 
Check all the connections, the trim pump sits in a dark and sometimes damp bilge. Google Mercruiser trim troubleshooting, there are some procedures out there that will help.


 
I had a similar issue a couple of seasons ago and found a heavily corroded fuse to be the culprit. It was located in a weatherproof housing (which I found full of water) attached to the trim pump assembly. Replaced with a new fuse and was good as new. As said above, the damp dark place it's located in can cause some issues.
 
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Electrical connections first, then check the parts. It's always the cheapest route to go especially when working in a damp environment as mentioned preciously. Most likely a connection.
 
swap the relays - I have a $1 that the problem follows the swap.
 
My guess is the Limit switch on outdrive. Do you have separate "Trailer" button? If so and that works, it's the limit switch. PITA to replace yourself, I just use my trailer button for now, but I was going to short out limit switch so "up" button would work.
 
I had the same issue on mine last year and it did turn out to be the solenoid. The best way to find out is to just switch the wires for the up solenoid to the down one. It ended up being about a $20 fix in the end and took about 1/2 hour to install.
 

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