Got the valve relief kit today,thanks Don, unfortunately

[Rob D]

it didn't fix it. The trim bleeds down while sitting. There is no external fluid leaking so I'm assuming it's bypassing a seal internally somewhere. Any ideas? 2000 225 optimax ser.#0t121163.
Thanks,
Rob Dickson

[redline]

Rob, I think I answered that in your parts posting...but...I'd bet it is a port trim piston.....

[Rob D]

Thank you, is there a kit for that piston assembly. And just curious why the port side?

[redline]

The port trim piston contains the valving to control the "lock out" so the trim will not hydraulically bleed down. I'm at home now, but I believe the old number was something like 43397T.......It will be something a merc dealer will have to do because you'll need special tool to remove / install it. Replaced a bunch of them over the years for the same problem......

[EuropeanAM]

<TABLE WIDTH="90%" CELLSPACING=0 CELLPADDING=0 ALIGN=CENTER><TR><TD>Quote, originally posted by redline &raquo;</TD></TR><TR><TD CLASS="quote">The port trim piston contains the valving to control the "lock out" so the trim will not hydraulically bleed down. I'm at home now, but I believe the old number was something like 43397T.......It will be something a merc dealer will have to do because you'll need special tool to remove / install it. Replaced a bunch of them over the years for the same problem......</TD></TR></TABLE>

+1

You'll need a part# 878413A1 Port Side Trim Rod Kit ($179.50 Retail)

There is a check valve mechanism in the piston of this rod, which is designed as a relief mechanism for the system in event of "severe shocks". If it leaks.... the engine will leak down on it's own.

There are also several other points that can cause this issue: Check valves on the main trim ram (center), check valves in the pump itself, or o-rings (just about any one of them).

90% of leakdown problems are caused either by the relief screw, or the port side ram.

As Bob stated, two special tools are required to properly remove and replace this component.

[Rob D]

Thanks guys, are the special tools to take apart the piston assembly once you remove the piston from the trim cylinder?

[EuropeanAM]

One tool is the wrench to remove the endcap, the other tool is a "holder" to allow safe removal of the piston.

Second tool you might get away without.... but you'll need the "spanner wrench" tool.

[Rob D]

Thanks Don and redline, you guys are great. I'll order the kit from you Don. I don't have the holder but I have spanner wrenches and i've rebuilt the trim on an older 115 Johnson that my dad had so hopefully I can do this. Trying to save some money.
Thanks again,
Rob Dickson

[Rob D]

Don just to double check the part number you said it was 878493a1, I looked it up and it said 878413a1. ser #0t121163.
Thanks

[EuropeanAM]

878413A1 is correct.... that's what I get for using a laptop on the weekends!!!