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Been having intermittent issues with my power trim tilt. On its bad days the trim is "jerky" or "hoppy" going down and will barely move going up. Once it gets down to all three rams (trim area) works fine. With a few quick up/ downs takes off and runs perfect. Then randomly does it again. I have verified the batteries are fully charged, switches and solenoids are good and have drained/ replaced the fluid. Been told it does NOT sound like the motor but possibly some internals in the system. So, I would like any input on a "quality" replacement motor or possibly whole trim assembly. OEM trim tilt motor is no longer available which leave the entire assebly $$$$$! So aftermarket choices appear to be ARCO and API. I have found a Sierra "old stock" new in box part for a reasonable price, but the date of MFG is 2004 and has a slightly different design than the new replacements.
XXX pump (made overseas ) $90
ARCO - $185
API $ 128
Sierra "old stock" $175
Whole trim tilt assembly
API $849
Mercury $1,440
Sooo, would like any thought from those who have experienced these symptoms and quality replacement parts used.
I am a long time Mercury owner, and can tell you that Mercury power trim units 75Hp and up are tough and expensive to repair, if at all. Many servicing dealers will not attempt repair of the seals, and recommend complete unit replacement to avoid expensive call backs from customers when they don't function properly, etc. I had to have a whole unit repaced on one of my V-6's and it cost about $1500.
The dealer refused to attempt seal repair/replacement.
I would look for a good used replacement unit on Ebay or elsewhere.
Before you replace, be sure the unit is bled properly and oil level is full.
I have same issue with a 1999 Optimax. The unit slowly leaks down on the trailer. No issue under power and underway. My mechanic thinks it is trash in the hydraulic check valve but recommended just ignoring it and use the tilt lock out of the water. To complicate matters, you have to unbolt the motor from the transom on one side to remove the tilt/trim assembly! If I am going to unbolt the engine, then I might as well wait and get a whole new motor bolted on the stern.
