Mariner power trim problem

[Quincy]

Mariner 1998 115hp. Sometimes the downward trim does not function Yet the up trim works .I then go
to the trim cylinder at the motor and unscrew the teflon screw then the motor comes down all the
way.When this situation occurs I try trimming down from the bow switch,the trottle switch, or at the
motor and it still does not trim down. It will go on like this for a few days then all of a sudden the switches function normally.Where does one start checking for the problem.How can the up trim
function at all 3 locations and not function in the down trim. Any advise will be appreciated.

[Nofish]

Hey Quincy,

I had the same problem on one of the 115's that I owned. Take the cowl off. Look on what would be the drivers side of the motor. The right side as you look at the motor from behind. At least that is where I remember it to be. It is on one side or the other (obviously) of the motor.

What you are looking for is where the wiring harness comes in from the boat. It runs along side the motor and on the side, at the bottom of the power head, just about pan level, there is a large plug.

It is supposed to sit in a metal half shell shaped just like the plug. This is called the Canon Plug. If it is out of the holder it will have vibrated a bit and may have the beginnings of a loose connection. Just be sure the plug is pushed together all the way. Wiggle it ever so slightly as you push it together.

If it is not this plug, you will need to find the wire that is pinched, loose or shorted and not allowing the trim to function properly, and that is best left to your dealer.

I never would have found this problem if it wasn't for the Merc Tech at the MWC tournamnet I was fishing when this happened.

Good luck.......R