Trim/Tilt winterizing

jimchere

Petty Officer 1st Class
Joined
Jun 30, 2003
Messages
321
This is my first motor with power tilt/trim. Its a 1996 EL50PTO (50hp)3cyl, and I have the Merc manual. I did all the winterizing with fuel stabilizer, lower end, and fogging. Question I have is after draining the lower end, should I leave it for the winter in the down or up position? By reading the manual, my understanding is that max pressure exists when the unit is down. It also fits under the cover better with motor down, but isn't that hard on the seals? Basically, what's best position to leave it (water has been drained), up or down? If you have the time, I've only ran this motor for one season and love it, but would ask for opinions about the longevity/durability of it as well.<br />Thanks for any help
 

jimchere

Petty Officer 1st Class
Joined
Jun 30, 2003
Messages
321
Re: Trim/Tilt winterizing

Edit: Sorry, I intended to say by "draining lower end" that I made sure no water was left in the engine....the lower unit itself has new gear oil in it.
 

Elmer Fudge

Lieutenant Commander
Joined
Aug 25, 2003
Messages
1,881
Re: Trim/Tilt winterizing

I leave mine in the down position,never had a problem that way.
 

dingbat

Supreme Mariner
Joined
Nov 20, 2001
Messages
16,338
Re: Trim/Tilt winterizing

By reading the manual, my understanding is that max pressure exists when the unit is down.
Maximum pressure is exerted when the cylinders are in the extended position which would be when the motor is in the up position. The reason you vet the system in the up position is because the pressure is contained within the cylinders which allows you to open the reservoir to vent the pressure.
 
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