DF 200 Trim unit seal replacement

[Doghouse71]

I have a leak in the bottom of the trim unit that appears to be the seals on the shaft across the bottom of the unit. How do i remove that shaft so that i can get seals replaced?

[Still Floatin]

Mmm ... horizontal shaft?

Doghouse, IFAIK the horizontal shaft on tilt/trim units is not lubed by hydraulic oil. I don't remember ever seeing one set up like that. You'll probably discover that you have a small seal leak at the vertical main tilt shaft, or at a trim cylinder. Another spot to check is the oil reservoir plug. But in any case you have to remove the TT for service by a hydraulics shop. (I've heard of hydraulic seal conditioners that stop small leaks but haven't tried one ... IMO you eventually have to make a *real* repair)

Tilt/trim removal is a pain -- best done with a xanax, a six-pack, and a headphone full of music. The manuals tell you to lift the engine off the transom bracket before starting, but that's not always necessary. Use your hoist to lift the engine slightly and support the weight, then remove one side of the transom mounting bracket. Disconnect the main cylinder vertical shaft and retract it, then disconnect the electrical switch wire. Protect the threads on the big transom mounting bolts as you drive them back. Be patient, don't rush and be careful of wiring and tubing, transponders, or speedometer pickups that are within your hammer range.

I usually take off the starboard side but the other side might be easier on you own boat. Once half the transom bracket is off you can see how the horizontal TT shaft fits. You probably won't have to pull the shaft all the way out ... just slide the entire TT unit to the side and off.

This kind of job is not for the faint of heart, at least on heavy engines. I recommend getting a service manual, available on the Net for a few bucks.

[Doghouse71]

i have the motor off the transom now as i have a little bit of issue with the transom that is almost fixed. Should not be a horrible deal to get the unit off now. I will clean it though and see where the leak is from to confirm your thoughts.

Thanks for the reply