Rebuilding '96 Volvo Penta DP-s Hydraulic Rams

Michael Clemensen

Member
Member
Joined
Jan 1, 2000
RO Number
2006
Messages
359
Rebuilding the hydraulic trim/tilt rams on a '96 M22 Volvo Penta DP-S. The stern drive randomly sank, 19 years old, 2500 hours on power plant. Suspected one or both of the rams OR the hydraulic power unit was causing the settling of the drive. Factory OEM rebuild kits are No Longer Available. Found a place that makes a Kit for the SX/DP-S that utilizes different seals in the piston and end cap assembly. http://www.freewebstore.org/VP-Outd...ylinder_ram_rebuild_kit/p2086777_9509838.aspx
Today I installed both kits, went well. The most frustrating issue was the filling and purging of the hydraulic system with ATF, What a mess!! The units are filled and sitting with the stern drive in the full tilt position, the dimensions have been noted. We'll see if it settles over the night. I purchased a Williams 483 Adjustable Face Spanner, 3-Inch instead of using the provided “free" spanner, the Williams spanner worked beautifully! I also purged all the 19 year old ATF out of the pump unit prior to installing the rams and refilling the ATF. I'll let you know if the stern drive is still “UP" when I get back to the boat tomorrow. Replacement Hydraulic rams are tough to come by and very EXPENSIVE $500.00 ea. or More$$. Hope this kit solves the drooping issue.
 
Update-
Stern Drive this morning is still at the same physical position. Looks to be good after 16 hours.
 
Well done!

6 or so years ago I rebuilt the rams on a 175 Johnson outboard. It worked, but it was a real PITA. Bet you saved yourself a ton of cash on that job. I know I did.
 
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