Jackplate goes up, but not down- help!

[BKlingel418]

I have a Bob's jackplate that will go up, but when you push the down button, nothing happens. Won't go down. Any thoughts? I was thinking the up/down switch might be bad. I've heard of relays/solenoid maybe going bad... Don't any any idea how to fix if it's a relay/solenoid.. Hopefully just a switch, they're cheap ($25) and easy to fix. Any help/stories with prior experience with this issue is appreciated.

thanks,

[kellytheaker]

check with a test light to see if it is getting power - then listen for a relay or solonoid click . and then you will know better but if getting power - relay - solonoid - switch them around and see if that improved situation . check connections at dash and pump , fuses - all the simple stuff first - that should get you started - hope this helps

[Hydrogasm]

Bklingel418
A quick test for the solenoid would be to pit a jumper wire to the two large posts on the down solenoid to see if it moves then. That will eliminate the solenoid. If it is an older plate then it has the smaller solenoids. I upgrade mine last year to the larger ones which Bob's offer on their website. I hope this helps.
Thanks
Gary

[XstreamVking]

If it's a bobs the relays are usually mounted on the pump bracket. If the relay is getting power but not working just call bobs and get 2 new ones. Replace them both and just remove and replace the wires as you go. Or take pics to guide you on rewiring them. It's not hard. Just get a cheap multi voltester ot a light at least.

[DanUmbarger]

If the pump is a 2 wire pump it needs both relays for both up and down....best to change both at the same time. If it's a three wire pump it could be just the down relay. With the three wire pump relay ...yes you can jump across the 2 large posts to check...not so on the 2 wire pump relays.

[BKlingel418]

Bklingel418
A quick test for the solenoid would be to pit a jumper wire to the two large posts on the down solenoid to see if it moves then. That will eliminate the solenoid. If it is an older plate then it has the smaller solenoids. I upgrade mine last year to the larger ones which Bob's offer on their website. I hope this helps.
Thanks
Gary

Can you do this with a screwdriver? I've seen my buddy put his Port-a-bracket up & down with a screwdriver on the pump. It zaps a little, but works. So if it works with putting the screwdriver on it, then it's a bad solenoid & needs to be replaced?

[XstreamVking]

Better to use a voltmeter or a test light. Sparks in a boat is a bozo no-no. Hate to see you splode it. Battery fumes and gas is near, and it's a closed compartment.