Answer
May 01, 2025 - 01:29 AM
If the tilt is stuck down on your 130HP E-TEC, there are a few things you can check right away to narrow it down. First, when you press the tilt switch (either on the engine or the throttle), do you hear anything? A click usually means the relays are trying, but the motor might be shot or not getting power. No sound at all could point to a dead relay, a blown fuse, or a bad connection in the wiring harness.
Also, check the battery voltage. Low voltage can stop the tilt motor cold without blowing a fuse. If your battery’s borderline, even a small drop could be enough to keep it from running the tilt motor.
If everything electrical checks out, you might have a hydraulic lock. Sometimes air or fluid pressure in the system can trap it. Look for a small manual release screw on the tilt unit; it’s usually near the bottom of the trim pump. Loosen that a turn or two and you should be able to raise the motor manually (just go slow and have a buddy help if it’s heavy).
Once it’s up, check the trim fluid level in the reservoir and top it off if needed. If the fluid's low, or contaminated, that can keep the tilt from moving properly.
In any case, yes, the manual covers tilt and trim system diagnostics and repair, including for your 130HP E-TEC. If the tilt is stuck in the down position, the manual walks you through checking the relays, trim motor, switch, and fluid level, plus how to manually release the pressure if you need to raise the motor by hand. So if you want to dig in deeper or need specs, it’s all in there.
Good luck!
