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Slow trim pump? 87 Formula Mercruiser Alpha

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Slow trim pump? 87 Formula Mercruiser Alpha

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Old 05-08-2019 | 10:20 AM
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Default Slow trim pump? 87 Formula Mercruiser Alpha

Howdy!

I have an 87 Formula with twin 350s. One trim pump works great. The other moves REEEAAAALLLLY slow. I am concerned the electric motor is burning up, due to it not making the noise the other does, and its slow movement.

Can anyone give me some advice on h0ow to test it, how to ID the pump if I need to rebuild or replace, and where I could find parts?


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Old 05-08-2019 | 11:36 AM
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The most common reason for a slow pump is corroded wire connections. A few minutes with contact cleaner and sandpaper may solve the issue.
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Old 05-08-2019 | 11:47 AM
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Originally Posted by Baja Rooster
The most common reason for a slow pump is corroded wire connections. A few minutes with contact cleaner and sandpaper may solve the issue.
Thank you. I will work on that first!

I really appreciate the advice. I am not adverse to taking her to the shop, but noone here really wants to work on it.
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Old 05-08-2019 | 07:50 PM
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Check the voltage at the pump when it's running and compare that with the good pump operation.
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Old 05-08-2019 | 10:02 PM
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As stated earlier clean all contact points and check wires for corrosion. I did put new brushes in 2 of those pumps before and solved my problem. I believe it was the crud in the motor more so than the new brushes. Not a fun job, I would buy a new motor off eBay if I had to do it again.
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Old 05-09-2019 | 12:19 AM
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Trim motor wearing out and or possible valve body issues. Also check the condition of the fluid and if you have water in it. That unit has not been made in many years so father time has taken over. Its most likely time for some new parts or a new complete current unit.
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Old 05-30-2019 | 03:14 PM
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So, as a follow up, the electric motor on that pump was bad. Replaced it and everything works great.

Thanks for all the help!

J
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