Trim Position Sensor or Voltage Regulator

[gumbyjb]

I've been getting a System Fault message on my SmartCraft gauge for about a year. It shows as a Trim Position Sensor fault when I scroll through the messages. I took it in last fall to have it checked and my mechanic said my alternator wasn't putting out enough voltage (12.5 volts) and causing my fault. I had a new alternator put on this spring but still have the fault showing up.

I've read several threads where similar faults were found to be the result of bad or mis-adjusted Trim Position Sensors. However, none of those threads state anything about the low charging voltage. So I'm wondering if maybe the voltage regulator is bad. I haven't been able to find if the alternator (Mercuiser 863077t) has an internal voltage regulator or if it is external, but I think it is internal, so I'm not sure if the alternator was my problem.

Does anyone have any suggestions on other things to check? I would doubt it is the trim position sensor if it is a result of low charging voltage.

 

[bbwhitejr]

i dealt with the Trim Fault thing most of last fall. Trim gauge did not move at all. Tried adjusting the "hockey puck" on the starboard side of the OD to no avail. Changed and calibrated the trim sender/limit and no more fault. Not saying that is your issue, but it can be very aggravating. If your rim gauge is working, try calibrating it. This function is under the "Cal 1" screens on the Smartcraft tach and in the smartcraft manual.

Bennett