2001 25HP Merc Won't Lock in Down position

[smalllundowner]

Hello to all and thank you for any help in advance.

Just finished a fishing trip - did not have any problems with boat or motor entire time. Thought I had motor in the locked down position for trailering, but when looking in mirror, noticed it bouncing. When I examined closely, it appeared that the rod that goes from one side to the other to maintain your motor trim had come loose on 1 side. I put it back through and all seemed fine. But I am aunable to get the motor to "lock" in the down position for trailering.

Can any of you help me?

Thanks so much.