Answer
Jun 16, 2025 - 05:16 PM
On the Suzuki DT85's power trim and tilt system, the bypass valve, also commonly referred to as the manual release valve or manual relief valve, is built directly into the hydraulic pump unit. It’s there to let you manually tilt the engine when the trim motor fails, the battery is dead, or you're stuck and need to move the outboard without power.
You’ll usually find it at the base of the trim/tilt motor assembly. It’s a small, recessed flathead xxxx (sometimes with a rubber cap over it), often located near the hydraulic line connections. A simple turn with a screwdriver counterclockwise will crack it open and relieve pressure, allowing you to manually raise or lower the engine. Just don’t forget to tighten it back up before trying to run the system again — otherwise, it won’t hold pressure.
Long story short — if you’re diving into this job to replace, repair, or bleed the system, the manual we’ve got for the DT85 covers the entire trim and tilt assembly in solid detail. Diagrams, flow paths, pressure specs, full disassembly, etc.. Definitely worth grabbing if you're planning to wrench on this system yourself.
