Trim is working fine, but makes a sound like it is under high pressure, almost a grown type of sound.

All pivots on the drive are lubed.

Boat has only been using in fresh water, and when not running, its dry out of the water.

I'm guessing it is time for pump (hope not, it is buried under the motor, would not be fun to replace it!)

Hoping there is some other issue, or alternative solution.

Try a fluid change and see if it quiets down.

you do not have the red shipping cap still installed under the yellow cap of the trim reservoir ??? Seen this a bunch thru out the years.

Also water in the trim fluid any ? also air in the system or trim fluid too low of a level that can cause it to suck air.

is this a stock mercruiser set up and what year ?

Found the grinding issue! Had to take out the back seats to get to it to inspect, and noticed the electric trim motor casing was loose.

Took it off, dirty water came out of it. And noticed all 4 screws that hold it together, were missing!!

Not sure if this is a common issue, but I have never heard of this part to "check"

So check your screws and make sure none are missing or loose (I think I'll blue lock-tight on the new one)