1999 J115PLEE fastrike tilt/trim

[KABPI]

My 99 Johnson 115 seems to have an internal leak issue witht he tilt/trim. No fluid loss anywhere, but the unit will allow the engine to gradually leak down from tilt or trim positions and will not hold solid under power. I called a local marina and was told it's either the manual release valve ($150 repair) or I will need a whole new fastrike assembly with a price tag of a grand. Is this correct? If so, why can't the assembly be rebuilt? Is there anywhere to get a cheaper assembly if that's the problem?
Thanks for your help ahead of time!
Ken

Serial # G 04684807

[ChampioNman]

There are rebuild kits available that includes new O rings etc. You may want to try bleeding the system to see if it helps matters. To do this trim the motor down to the ground and put a piece of 2X4 under the skeg. Loosen the manual release screw a few turns then trim the motor up and down for 5 cycles each (count to 10 in each direction) and then tighten the screw. Trim all the way up and support the motor with the trailering bracket and open the reservoir, fill if necessary. Trim it up and try it. Any Fast Track trim assembly off of a current model year motor will work. Check the parts for sale section for members parting out motors. Good luck.