Repairing a Damaged Outboard Motor Trim System - Safety & Alternatives

Question
I have an old Johnson 85hp motor in which the trim cylinders are shoot, I can not find replacements for them.  Can I still use the boat safely without the trim?

Thanks for your help

Answer
Hi Tim....Thank you for selecting the undersigned to reply to your question.

The advantage of the trim system is to help plane out the boat while at cruising speed, and not plow through the water. So long as you properly control your speed, you should be okay. The only disadvantage is fuel efficiency, given the degree of friction the bottom of the hull will produce when not in a full planing position.

Safe Boating
Ron