Yamaha F150 Spontaneously Tilting while underway

[Dapman04]

Good evening....I took my boat (twin 2004 F150s) out this morning and while I was in the channel coming home the starboard engine tilted completely out of the water. I knew something was wrong as there was no way that I hit the trim/tilt switch. I eventually got the engine to tilt back down and a minute later it did it again. Any ideas on where to start - is there a certain part that is more prone to failure? Appreciate the help!

[robert graham]

I'd check the connections and wires back at the tilt/trim relay....then check the switch itself...

[TownsendsFJR1300]

Most likely one of the trim switches (helm / engine) has failed.

Disconnect the engine switch / plug first and see if it continues. If it stops, you've found your issue.

If not, its the switch in the control box.

BTW, if you un-plug the T&T in the cowl (just follow the wire from the T&T into the cowl), it'll fully disable it allowing you to get home..

[Dapman04]

Thank you! It looks like this is not a common problem....

[pstephens46]

Thank you! It looks like this is not a common problem....

I seem to remember a couple threads about it.

[boscoe99]

The trim/tilt switch on the throttle handle is the most problematic of the two switches. Being exposed to the elements does it.

[oldmako69]

03-hot-girls-fishing-part2.jpg Effing coriolis! That coupled with a weak Fetzer valve and you're done. That thing will tilt like a mofo.

[TownsendsFJR1300]

Thank you! It looks like this is not a common problem....

Kinda is... Read probably about 6 in the last year..

Don't remember which switch was usually the issue thou.

I'd think the engine would see more salt spray (issues) than the helm but, dunno… It's one of em..


Oldmako69, keep it up, I'm "tilting" now!

[Dapman04]

Just a quick update - replaced the switch on the engine and no change. Replaced the switch on the Binnacle and it fixed it. What a pain it was to get the plastic cover off to replace the switch - wish I had bought the port side switch to replace at the same time. Thanks for all the help and input!

[TownsendsFJR1300]

Just curious, did you pull apart the bad switch and see what actually failed / got stuck?

And thanks for the update.