Trim tabs

[Loyd Dinneen]

I have 77 240SDA that has trim tabs. The port side had a leaky hose so I fixed that but the starboard side the motor runs but the tab doesn't move up or down. I don't see any leaks from the hose. The trim brand is Insta Trim as far as I can tell. Anyone ever had this problem? I'm looking at the valve thats controls that trim may be bad.

 

[Tabman]

The Boat Leveler system is pretty easy to troubleshoot. I put together this troubleshooting based on how the syetm works.

Here is he wiring for Boat Leveler.

green=Port Valve
white= Starboard Valve
red=Motor Forward (pump pressure)
yellow= Motor Reverse (pump retract)
black on HPU=Ground
red on Helm=Control Positive

Here is how you can test it.

Remove the wires from the helm control and touch together as follows:

Operation=Reaction
(+), Red, Green=Port trim tab down
(+), Red, White=Starboard trim tab down
(+), Red, Green, White=both trim tabs down
(+), Yellow, Green=Port trim tab up
(+), Yellow, White=Starboard trim tab up
(+), Yellow, White, Green=both trim tabs up

If the trim tabs function correctly for each wire grouping then the switch is at fault. Also note that any loose or missing screws on the back of the switch (whether a wire is connected there or not) can cause the pump to malfunction.

This test may also be done right at the pump by using a hot lead. There is usually a connector to the wire harness within a foot or so of the pump. You want to check this connection for corrosion. You may wish to cut the connector off on the pump side and try the test on bare wires.

If you suspect corrosion on the wire connector near the pump, cut it out, test as above and reconnect using butt splices.

Make sure to check both ends of the black ground wire at the pump for corrosion. Low voltage can cause the valves to not open even though the motor runs. Good idea to check all the connections.

I hope this is helpful,

Tom McGow
Bennett Marine

 

[Loyd Dinneen]

Checked the pump today by removing from engine well and running hoses off both outlet sides. The starboard side pumped fluid where the port side only made noise. I then checked the wire going to the port solanoid and was getting 12 volts. Have yet to check whether the pump is putting out fluid to that side. If it is it is most likely the solanoid thats bad. I used the switch to do the operation and the motor made noise thru out the operation. I was by myself so not able hold the solinoid and see if the piston moved or not.

 

[Tabman]

If you put power directly on the port side solenoid can you hear it click? If not that likely means the solenoid needs replacing.

Tom
Bennett Marine

 

[Loyd Dinneen]

I will have my son help me as when I put power to it now I'm to far away to tell if it makes noise.
Thanks
Loyd

 

[Tabman]

I'd like you to do it right at the pump, so you'll be right next to it and should be able to hear it

Tom

 

[Loyd Dinneen]

I went out with my son and tested the unit at the pump and the starboard solenoid clicked but didn't feel or hear a click from the port one which is the suspect one that isn't pumping fluid. I have went on Insta Trim site and ordered a new solenoid,10 ft. of replacement hose, and the little hose covers to complete the repair properly. Besides they charge $15.00 for freight regardless on what you order just as well get everything you may need. Thanks for your help.
Loyd