[cleah]

I recently bought a 1993 2350 Z. The outdrive trim gauge is faulty. It reads full up when I apply steering to one side, and full down when I steer to the other side. Changing the trim does not affect the gauge. Is this an easy issue to reolve?

Clive

[Z 202]

Sounds like a duff sender. Sender for both the trim limit and gauge are sold as a set. Replacement requires removal of the drive.

[cleah]

Sounds like a big jo. How difficult is removing the drive. Is there a detailed procedure somewhere on the web? Could you advise a good source for the new parts please?

regards

clive

[Z 202]

It'a a pretty big job, and you may need some special tools. You'll definately need a helper, the drive has to come off and it is VERY heavy...

Once again, mercstuff is your friend: http://www.mercstuff.com/ Look in the "How To's".

Remember also that contributing members to this forum also receive access to all of the Mercruiser service and repair manuals. You might want to consider becoming a member simply for that access.

[WetWilly]

Hello clive,

Z 202 right, it's a pretty big job to replace the trim sensors on any Merc and we do have manuals and the replacement procedure is in there.

The Bravo 1 leg weighs approximately 110lbs by itself (no prop) and you'll have to disconnect the shift cable, speedo tube, oil fill tube and the drive shaft bellow, rams, bell housing, etc... just to get to the sensor wiring. After replacing the sensors and reassembling everything, you need to calibrate the trim indicator and the trim limit switch sensors (this is a very important step so don't forget it!). Further more, the manual says you need a special tools to reattach the drive shaft bellow properly (The Bravo uses an aluminum sleeve to retain the u-joint bellow in place. You will need a Sleeve Removal Tool and a Sleeve Installation Tool).

So, unless you're really in the need for a big challenge and possible headache, I would strongly suggest farming the work out. This way, you have a warranty in case you develop any problems like a leak later on. Oh, and one last thing, this would be a great time to check the drive shaft u-joints, bellows, the gimbal bearing and rear shift cable.

Well good luck with which ever way you decide to go and let us know how it turns out!

WetWilly

[cleah]

Thanks,

This does sound like a job for the professionals. This is my first boat. I have done the cooling system clean out, sea water pump replpacement, trim tab hydraulics hoses and power steering cooler system, plus thermostat and some electrics. Also, trailer bearings and brakes, but this sounds a bridge too far. Any ideas how much I should expect to pay. I checked out the trim sensor kit which seems to be around $65.

Clive

[cleah]

Actually it is a Z2350 (1993). I have heard that it may be possible to replace the sensors withiut removing the drive, by pulling the wires through. All depends on whether the cables are retainer by a single lower 9/16 bolt, or also have an upper bolt.

What do you reckon?

Clive

[Z 202]

If the limit sender is still working correctly, you might just wait and get it done when the drive is pulled for maintenence. Makes much more sense to do it then, as you will average the cost of repair down.

[ShabahZ280]

I agree with Z202. Save yourself the time and work and have it done professionally when the drive gets it's maintenance.