Re: Tilt/Trim 85 Johnson
That 1977 unit incorporates a three wire electric motor (unless it's been converted). We will assume it is original. We will also assume that you have a good battery that is fully charged.<br /><br />The down mode is a straight electrical circuit, direct from the PTT switch to the electric motor, and gravity plays a part in lowering the engine.<br /><br />The up mode voltage is fed to the electric motor via a solenoid due to the full voltage/current needed to raise the engine.<br /><br />If the electric motor is running at its full speed and the lifting action is sluggish, there would be a hydraulic problem at some point within the unit.<br /><br />However, if the electric motor runs at full speed in the "down" mode, but it does not in the "up" mode..... that is, in the up mode the electric motor is what you are referring to as being sluggish, then I would suggest that you remove, clean, and re-install all of the cables associated with the PTT electrical system.<br /><br />This would include the battery connections and also the solenoid connections along with any terminals that are within any of the plug in connectors. Do not assume just because they feel tight that they are fine. A tight but dirty and/or corroded connector will result in a voltage drop.<br /><br />After you accomplish the above, if you still have a problem with the up mode, while holding the PTT switch in the up position, tap the electric motor with a small hammer or some such object. If the electric motor suddenly springs to life (or stops altogether), then a problem exists within the electric motor.
