Manual

Operation and Installation

8M0120820 616 eng
© 2016 Mercury Marine Active Trim
eng
Welcome
You have selected one of the finest marine power accessories available. It
incorporates numerous design features to ensure operating ease and durability.
This manual contains specific instructions for using and maintaining your
product. We suggest that this manual remain with the product for ready
reference whenever you are on the water.
Thank you for purchasing one of our products. We sincerely hope your boating
will be pleasant!
Mercury Marine, Fond du Lac, Wisconsin, U.S.A.

Read This Manual Thoroughly

IMPORTANT: If you do not understand any portion of this manual, contact your
dealer. Your dealer can also provide a demonstration of operating procedures.

Warranty Information
Mercury Precision parts and accessories have a standard limited warranty of
one year.
Mercury gauges, controls, and rigging components—if installed on the boat at
the same time as the engine—will have a standard limited warranty equal to
that of the engine (if built after 5/1/2007). If purchased separately, Mercury
gauges, controls, and rigging components will have a standard limited warranty
of one year.
For details concerning the one year Mercury Precision, SmartCraft, and
Quicksilver Part and Accessories Limited Warranty, refer to the Mercury
Precision Parts Accessories Guide or contact your local authorized Mercury
Marine dealer.

Copyright and Trademark Information

© MERCURY MARINE. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in
part without permission is prohibited.
Alpha, Axius, Bravo One, Bravo Two, Bravo Three, Circle M with Waves Logo,
K‑planes, Mariner, MerCathode, MerCruiser, Mercury, Mercury with Waves
Logo, Mercury Marine, Mercury Precision Parts, Mercury Propellers, Mercury
Racing, MotorGuide, OptiMax, Quicksilver, SeaCore, Skyhook, SmartCraft,
Sport‑Jet, Verado, VesselView, Zero Effort, Zeus, #1 On the Water and We're
Driven to Win are registered trademarks of Brunswick Corporation. Pro XS is a
trademark of Brunswick Corporation. Mercury Product Protection is a registered
service mark of Brunswick Corporation.

eng i
eng ii
 Important Information

Electrical Safety Requirements........................................................................... 1

Operation

Introduction to Active Trim.................................................................................. 2

Active Trim Keypad............................................................................................. 3
Active Trim Operation......................................................................................... 4
Adjustable Profiles.............................................................................................. 5
Selecting the Correct Profile............................................................................... 6

Troubleshooting

Red Status Light Fault Codes............................................................................. 9

Owner Service Assistance

Service Assistance........................................................................................... 10

Installation

Active Trim Kit Contents................................................................................... 12

Installation Notes.............................................................................................. 15
Keypad Installation........................................................................................... 16
Vessel Control Module (VCM) Installation........................................................ 17
Harness Connections....................................................................................... 18
Trim Profiles Overview...................................................................................... 32
Setup and Configuration................................................................................... 33
CDS G3 Setup.................................................................................................. 35
Templates......................................................................................................... 37

eng iii
eng iv
 IMPORTANT INFORMATION
Electrical Safety Requirements
! WARNING
This unit has not been assessed as a safety component and is not to be
relied upon as a safety device.

SPECIFICATIONS
IMPORTANT: Always refer to the Operation and Maintenance manual included
with each engine for fuse holder location, fuse rating, and electrical system
overload protection.
This equipment is only intended for connection to 9–16 VDC, low voltage,
electrical systems of boats or similar marine vessels. Do not connect this
equipment to any circuit rated in excess of 16 VAC (RMS), 22.6 VPK, or 35
VDC, and only connect to boat electrical systems powered by batteries or
alternators or otherwise only to circuits separated from main voltages by at
least double or reinforced insulation.
This product must not be installed in a manner inconsistent with the
recommended procedures set forth in the installation instructions included
herein. Improper removal or installation of the product can cause injury or
damage to the vessel or engine components.
BATTERY INSTALLATION
Always refer to the installation manual included with each engine for battery
specifications and battery installation procedures.

Electrical rating 9–16 VDC

Maximum fuse size Mechanical: 15 A DTS: 5 A
Maximum rate input current 300 mA
IP rating IP4X

Altitude < 3000 m (9842 ft)

Operating temperature –20–60 °C (–4–140 °F)
Environmental conditions
Overvoltage Category 1
For use in pollution degree 4 (outdoor use)
IP rating IP4X

eng 1
 OPERATION
Introduction to Active Trim
Active Trim is Mercury Marine’s patented GPS‑based automatic trim system.
This intuitive, hands‑free system continually adjusts engine or drive trim for
changes in operating conditions to improve performance, fuel economy, and
ease of operation. It responds to boat maneuvers with precision and delivers a
better overall driving experience. No knowledge of trimming an engine or drive
is needed to take advantage of Active Trim.
• As the boat accelerates, the engine or drive will trim out.
• As the boat decelerates, for example, while making a turn, the engine or
drive will trim in.
• Active Trim can be overridden at anytime by using the regular, manual
trim buttons.
• Active Trim allows the boat operator to compensate for changes in boat
load, driver preferences, and weather conditions while maintaining full
automatic control.
HOW IT WORKS
The Active Trim system has four modes of operation:

1. Idle Speeds
Maintains the existing trim position.

61896

2. Acceleration (hole shot)

Tucks the engine or drive under to minimize bow
rise and improve time‑to‑plane.

61897

3. Planing Speeds
Progressively trims the engine or drive based on
GPS speed to maintain the most efficient
running attitude.
61898

4. Override
When the boat operator uses manual trim, the
Active Trim system is immediately overridden,
returning full control to the operator.

61899

At boat startup, Active Trim resumes the on/off state from the previous shut
down. For example, if Active Trim was on at the previous shut down, it will be
on at the next startup.

2 eng
 OPERATION
BUILT-IN GPS
This device includes a built‑in GPS antenna used to determine vessel speed.
The GPS has three start‑up modes:
• Cold Start ‑ If vessel battery power was turned off (using a battery switch),
GPS will take 30–60 seconds to acquire a signal.
• Warm Start ‑ If vessel battery power has been maintained since last
shutdown, GPS will acquire a signal in approximately 30 seconds.
• Hot Start ‑ If the vessel has been keyed off for less than eight hours, the
GPS will acquire a signal in less than 10 seconds.
The Active Trim system will not automatically control trim until the GPS unit has
acquired a signal. The system status light flashing red may indicate that no
GPS signal has been acquired.

Active Trim Keypad

NOTE: Refer to the engine's Operation and Maintenance manual for important
information about the product's starting procedure and the standard power trim
system before attempting to operate the Active Trim system.
The relative angle of the boat bottom to the water when the vessel is on plane
affects acceleration, top speed, fuel economy, handling, and operation in rough
or choppy water.

a d

b e

61873

a - ON/RESUME button and system status light

b - OFF button
c - Trim profile indicator: Indicates the adjustable profile currently engaged.
If any of these lights are flashing, the system is in setup mode (refer to
Setup and Configuration).
d - Trim profile adjust Up Arrow: Changes the adjustable trim profile to a
more aggressive trim curve (more trim angle at a lower boat speed).
e - Trim profile adjust Down Arrow: Changes the adjustable trim profile to
a less aggressive trim curve (less trim angle at a lower boat speed).

eng 3
 OPERATION
SYSTEM STATUS LIGHT

• A constant amber light indicates that the system is working normally.

• A flashing amber light indicates that the Active Trim system is not
controlling trim (user override). Press the ON/RESUME button to resume
Active Trim control.
• A flashing red light indicates a problem with the system. Refer to
Troubleshooting.

Active Trim Operation

• Active Trim automatically controls trim to maintain the optimum engine or
drive position based on engine RPM and boat speed.
• Active Trim progressively trims out the engine or drive to maintain an
efficient running attitude.
• The operator can always override the Active Trim system with the panel
mounted or control handle trim position switch. A flashing amber light on
the ON/RESUME button indicates that an override has occurred. Press
the ON/RESUME button to resume Active Trim operation.
• Active Trim will maintain the last known trim position when operating at
speeds in excess of 80 km/h (50 mph).
• Operation above 80 km/h (50 mph) may require trim adjustments using
the panel mounted or control handle trim position switch.
• Active Trim will gradually return the engine or drive to the down position
during deceleration.
• Active Trim will only function when the engine or drive is in the normal trim
range. Refer to Trailer Position and Active Trim.
NOTE: When paired with a SmartCraft gauge with an available ECO mode
screen, the Active Trim system will override any ECO mode request.
RESUME FUNCTIONALITY
If the boat operator overrides the Active Trim system at planing speeds using
the trim button, or exceeds 80 km/h (50 mph), the system will stop controlling
the trim. Active Trim will resume automatically under the following conditions:
• Override occurred above 80 km/h (50 mph) and the boat operator then
decelerates to below 80 km/h (50 mph).
• Override occurred above 80% of the rated engine RPM and the boat
operator then decelerates to below 80% of the rated engine RPM.
• Override occurred in the cruising speed range and then the boat operator
decelerates to idle. Active Trim will become active on the next
acceleration.

4 eng
 OPERATION
SHALLOW WATER OPERATION
Active Trim cannot detect water depth and will not trim up automatically in
shallow water. The boat operator will need to override Active Trim by trimming
the engine or drive manually or pressing the OFF button.
TRAILER POSITION AND ACTIVE TRIM
Placing the engine or drive in trailer position (over 50% of the adapted trim
range) will prevent Active Trim from engaging. Any time the engine or drive is
trimmed above its normal range—to navigate shallow water, launch the boat
from a trailer, or load the boat onto a trailer, for example—you must manually
trim down before Active Trim will function. This safety feature is meant to
prevent the engine or drive from automatically trimming down and hitting
something.
If the engine or drive is trimmed beyond its normal range and the vessel speed
is over 8 km/h (5 mph), the ON/RESUME light will flash, indicating that Active
Trim will not engage until the engine or drive is manually trimmed down. After
the engine or drive has been trimmed back down, automatic control can be
resumed by pressing the On/Resume button.

Adjustable Profiles
ADJUSTABLE PROFILE CURVES
There are five adjustable profiles available to the operator. The following graph
illustrates how the five profiles vary the rate at which the Active Trim system
increases the trim angle as the boat speed increases.
5 4 3 2
1

c
a

b 61866

Example trim profile levels; actual curves will vary

a - Trim angle (percentage)
b - Boat speed
c - Trim profile indicator on Active Trim keypad

eng 5
 OPERATION
TRIM PROFILE ADJUSTMENT
Use the Active Trim keypad Up Arrow and Down Arrow buttons to adjust the
selected profile to the most efficient running attitude to compensate for changes
in boat loading (passenger or gear distribution, changes in ballast or fuel tank
levels), weather, propping, and operator preference.

a d

b e

61873

a- ON/RESUME button and system status light

b- OFF button
c- Trim profile indicator: Indicates the adjustable profile currently engaged.
d- Trim profile adjust Up Arrow: Changes the adjustable trim profile to a
more aggressive trim curve (more trim angle at a lower boat speed).
e - Trim profile adjust Down Arrow: Changes the adjustable trim profile to
a less aggressive trim curve (less trim angle at a lower boat speed).

When you press either the up or down arrow, you are selecting a different trim
curve. This means that Active Trim will use different trim angles throughout the
entire range of operation. This is not the same thing as manually adjusting the
trim (override).
NOTE: The boatbuilder or dealer should have configured the Active Trim
system for optimal performance for your boat and power package combination.
The five adjustable trim profiles should provide enough latitude to compensate
for changes in environmental conditions or boat loading.
If the five adjustable trim profiles are not adequate, Active Trim can be
reconfigured to a different major trim profile. Changing the major trim profile will
provide a different range of adjustable trim profiles. Refer to Setup and
Configuration, in the Installation section of this manual.

Selecting the Correct Profile

With so many available trim profiles, it can be difficult to determine which profile
is the correct one. In making this determination, it is important to understand
what trim is, how it affects boat operation, and how boat loading can influence
the required trim angle. Armed with a clear understanding of these concepts,
selecting the correct trim profile becomes simple.

6 eng
 OPERATION
WHAT TRIM IS
The trim angle of an outboard or sterndrive is the angle between the boat
bottom and the propeller shaft formed by moving the engine or sterndrive
closer to the boat transom. This movement is called trimming in or down.
Moving the engine or sterndrive further away from the transom is called
trimming out or up. When a boat is cruising on plane and the trim is adjusted so
that the propeller shaft is parallel to the surface of the water, that is said to be
running at zero trim.
The term "trim" is generally used when referring to adjusting the outboard or
sterndrive within the first 20° range of travel. This is the range used while
operating your boat on plane. The term "tilt" is generally used when referring to
adjusting the outboard or sterndrive further up or out of the water.
HOW TRIM AFFECTS BOAT OPERATION
The trim angle of the outboard or sterndrive has a distinct effect on the planing
angle of the boat, which in turn significantly alters the top speed and handling.
The engine or drive should be trimmed in for best start‑up acceleration and
shortest time to plane. The engine or drive would then be trimmed out for peak
performance. Active Trim automatically handles this transition for you.

61921

Engine or drive properly trimmed

If the engine or drive is trimmed in too far, the bow drops and the boat runs too
wet. In this condition, top speed drops, fuel economy decreases, the boat may
oversteer in one direction or the other (bow steering), and steering torque will
increase (to the right with a right‑hand rotation propeller). Occasionally,
extreme trim down can cause a boat to list to the left (with a right‑hand
propeller).

61922

Engine or drive trimmed in (bow too low)

eng 7
 OPERATION
If the engine or drive is trimmed out too far, the propeller may lose its hold on
the water, fast V‑bottom boats may start to walk from side to side (chine
walking), steering torque will increase in the opposite direction to that when
trimmed in, and getting on plane may be difficult or labored. Porpoising of the
boat may also occur.

61923

Engine or drive trimmed out (bow too high); porpoising

BOAT LOADING AND TRIM

Under normal loading and operating conditions while on plane, the boat bottom
is roughly parallel to the surface of the water. Changing the loading of the boat
will not change the trim angle as previously defined, but it will change the
running attitude of the boat with respect to the surface of the water. Adding
weight toward the stern of the boat will cause the bow to rise. Similarly, adding
weight toward the bow of the boat will cause the bow to lower.
Changing the trim angle can compensate for a change in the running attitude of
the boat. Increasing the trim angle will raise the bow of the boat, compensating
for bow heavy loading. Decreasing the trim angle will lower the bow of the boat,
compensating for stern heavy loading.
CHOOSING AN ACTIVE TRIM PROFILE
If Active Trim is configured properly, the normal setting for running on plane will
be profile 2, 3, or 4. This allows the operator the flexibility to change the trim
angle to compensate for variations in boat loading or other operating
conditions. Selecting a higher number profile will raise the bow and selecting a
lower number profile will lower the bow.
Use the preceding descriptions of trim in and trim out to help determine
whether or not your boat is trimmed properly (refer to How Trim Affects Boat
Operation). In general, this means you can increase the trim profile until the
bow begins to porpoise (rise and fall), and then back off one level.

8 eng
 TROUBLESHOOTING
Red Status Light Fault Codes

A flashing red light can indicate different things, depending

on if it is a single or a double flash sequence.

SINGLE FLASHING RED

ON ON ON ON ON ON

a OFF OFF OFF OFF OFF OFF

b 61841

a - Light (on or off)

b - Interval

Fault Condition Description Notes

GPS signal has achieved Indicates loss of GPS signal.
GPS signal
fix, but is dropping out Panel must have clear view.
intermittent
intermittently. Check for obstructions.
Indicates obstructed GPS
GPS signal GPS has not achieved fix
antenna or weak signal. Panel
unavailable since key on.
must have clear view.

DOUBLE FLASHING RED

ON ON ON ON ON ON

a OFF OFF OFF OFF OFF OFF

b 61842

a - Light (on or off)

b - Interval

Fault Condition Description Notes

Indicates that the Active Check keypad, J‑box, and
GPS_x230
Trim panel is not on the ECM helm harness
AgeCount
CAN P bus. connections.
Indicates a problem with
The engine did not achieve
Trim up or trim hydraulic pump operation,
its trim setpoint while
down not fuse, connection, trim sensor,
attempting to trim up or
achieved or trim down circuit. Refer to
down.
appropriate service manual.

eng 9
 OWNER SERVICE ASSISTANCE
Service Assistance
LOCAL REPAIR SERVICE
If you need service for your Mercury accessory, take it to your authorized
dealer.
SERVICE AWAY FROM HOME
If you are away from your local dealer and the need arises for service, contact
the nearest authorized dealer. If, for any reason, you cannot obtain service,
contact the nearest Regional Service Center. Outside the United States and
Canada, contact the nearest Marine Power International Service Center.
PARTS AND ACCESSORIES INQUIRIES
Direct any inquiries concerning genuine Mercury Precision Parts® or
Quicksilver Marine Parts and Accessories® to a local authorized dealer.
Dealers have the proper systems to order parts and accessories, if they are not
in stock. Engine model and serial number are required to order correct parts.
CONTACT INFORMATION FOR MERCURY MARINE CUSTOMER
SERVICE
For assistance, call, fax, or write to the geographic office in your area. Please
include your daytime telephone number with mail and fax correspondence.

United States, Canada

English +1 920 929 5040 Mercury Marine
Telephone
Français +1 905 636 4751 W6250 Pioneer Road
English +1 920 929 5893 P.O. Box 1939
Fax Fond du Lac, WI 54936-1939
Français +1 905 636 1704
Website www.mercurymarine.com

Australia, Pacific
Telephone +61 3 9791 5822 Brunswick Asia Pacific Group
41–71 Bessemer Drive
Fax +61 3 9706 7228 Dandenong South, Victoria 3175
Australia

Europe, Middle East, Africa

Telephone +32 87 32 32 11 Brunswick Marine Europe
Parc Industriel de Petit-Rechain
Fax +32 87 31 19 65 B-4800 Verviers,
Belgium

10 eng
 OWNER SERVICE ASSISTANCE
Mexico, Central America, South America, Caribbean
Telephone +1 954 744 3500 Mercury Marine
11650 Interchange Circle North
Fax +1 954 744 3535 Miramar, FL 33025
U.S.A.

Japan
Telephone +072 233 8888 Kisaka Co., Ltd.
4‑130 Kannabecho, Sakai‑ku
Fax +072 233 8833 Sakai‑shi, Osaka 590‑0984, Japan

Asia, Singapore
Telephone +65 65466160 Brunswick Asia Pacific Group
T/A Mercury Marine Singapore Pte Ltd
Fax +65 65467789 29 Loyang Drive
Singapore, 508944

eng 11
 INSTALLATION
Active Trim Kit Contents
ALL DTS APPLICATIONS

Qty. Description
1 Basic kit
1 DTS Active Trim harness

NON-DTS APPLICATIONS
IMPORTANT: The Active Trim harness for non‑DTS applications is different
between Outboard and MerCruiser applications, and between single and
dual‑engine applications. Confirm that you have the correct harness for your
application prior to beginning the installation.

150 EFI FourStroke and OptiMax Engines

Qty. Description
1 Basic kit
1 Active Trim harness

75/90/115 EFI FourStroke Engines

Qty. Description
1 Basic kit
1 Active Trim harness
1 or 2 Digital to analog converter (includes installation instructions)
1 or 2 Digital trim sender kit
2 Screw
2 Lockwasher
2 Washer

12 eng
 INSTALLATION
40/50/60 FourStroke Engines (Single‑Engine Only)
Active Trim can be installed on 40/50/60 FourStroke engines only with serial
number 1C453840 or above.

Qty. Description
1 Basic kit
1 Active Trim harness
1 Digital to analog converter (includes installation instructions)
1 Digital trim sender kit
2 Screw
2 Lockwasher
2 Washer
1 Anchor pin
1 Trilobe pin

MerCruiser Engines (Digital Transom)

Qty. Description
1 Basic kit
1 Active Trim harness

eng 13
 INSTALLATION

c d
g i
f h 61843

Basic kit contents

14 eng
 INSTALLATION
Ref. Qty. Description
a 1 Keypad assembly
b 3 Screw
c 1 Bracket
d 2 Cable tie
e 1 Vessel control module (VCM)
f 3 Grommet
g 3 Bushing
h 3 Washer
i 3 Wood screw, #10‑16 x 1.750

Installation Notes
! WARNING
Performing service or maintenance without first disconnecting the battery can
cause product damage, personal injury, or death due to fire, explosion,
electrical shock, or unexpected engine starting. Always disconnect the
battery cables from the battery before maintaining, servicing, installing, or
removing engine or drive components.

! CAUTION
Avoid injury or product damage. Obstructions, such as braces and wiring,
may be unseen when looking at the front of the dashboard. Before drilling or
cutting any holes in the dashboard, check the area behind the dashboard for
obstructions. Do not drill or cut when obstructions are present.

Active Trim uses an internal dedicated GPS sensor to monitor vessel speed
and adjust the drive attitude within programmed parameters.
Check the area behind the panel for cables, wiring, electronic components, and
obstructions before cutting or drilling. The selection of a suitable mounting
location is important for the optimal performance of the Active Trim system. The
mounting location and orientation of the keypad assembly should be:
• In the same area as the helm and within easy reach of the operator.
• In a location that provides a clear view of the sky without overhead
obstructions.
• At least 61 cm (24 in.) from speakers, VHF, satellite, and radar antennas,
or other equipment that produces radio frequency transmissions, or
magnetic fields.
Follow these tips when cutting the panel:
• Fiberglass—Apply masking tape to the area to be cut to prevent the panel
from cracking.

eng 15
 INSTALLATION
• Vinyl covered—Remove vinyl from the area to be cut with a razor blade to
keep vinyl from tearing.

Keypad Installation
FLUSH MOUNTING ON A THIN PANEL
The keypad assembly can be surface mounted or flush mounted. Remove, or
install the optional spacer behind the dash panel when flush mounting on a thin
panel.

c
f
b a e

a
d b 61844

Thick panel Thin panel

a - Gasket
b - Spacer (optional for thin panel installations)
c - Adhesive gasket
d - Thick panel
e - Thin panel
f - Antirotation pin hole

INSTALLATION PROCEDURE
1. Disconnect both battery cables from the battery.
2. Select an unobstructed location that provides good visibility.
3. Drill a mounting hole using a 54 mm (2.125 in.) hole saw.
4. Use a 6.35 mm (0.25 in.) drill bit to route a hole for the keypad housing
antirotation pin (not necessary when flush mounting with screws).

16 eng
 INSTALLATION
5. Place the keypad assembly, gasket, and spacer into the panel and secure
with the retaining nut or four #8 self‑tapping screws.

a- Plastic ring
e
b- Bezel
c c- Keypad
f
a d- Housing
i e- Spacer
f- #8 self‑tapping screw (4)
g- Adhesive gasket
h- Gasket
h
j i- Antirotation pin
g
j- Retaining nut
b d

c g
a

j
b d e
61845

NOTE: The spacer can be removed or placed on the back side of the panel
when flush mounting on a thin panel.

Vessel Control Module (VCM) Installation

1. Insert a rubber grommet into the three spaces provided on the VCM.
2. Insert a bushing into each rubber grommet.
3. Mount the VCM bracket in a dry and accessible location using three
screws.
4. Use wood screws to mount the VCM to the bracket at the selected
location. (At the helm, near the junction box is recommended.)

eng 17
 INSTALLATION
5. Predrilling pilot holes for the screws is recommended.

b
a

g
e f
d
59752

a- Wood screw (3)

b- Washer (3)
c- VCM
d- Grommet (3)
e- Bushing (3)
f- Bracket
g- Screw (3)

Harness Connections
VCM CONNECTION (ALL MODELS)
Exercise care when connecting the vessel control module (VCM) to the Active
Trim harness. Carefully insert the harness connector into the module socket,
and push down on the connector lock to fully engage the connector.

61846

VCM connector; press down to lock, pull up to unlock

18 eng
 INSTALLATION
ALL DTS APPLICATIONS (EXCEPT TABS)

a- Keypad assembly
b- J‑box (4‑way shown, actual configuration may vary)
c- Helm harness
d- VCM
e- DTS Active Trim harness

1. Verify the CCM software is compatible with the Active Trim system.
a. For DTS, the CCM software must be version 80 or higher.
b. For joystick piloting systems, the CCM software must be CCM13 or
newer.
2. Ensure that the keypad assembly and VCM have been installed as
previously outlined.
3. Connect the DTS Active Trim harness to the VCM. Refer to VCM
Connection (All Models).
4. Connect the keypad assembly to the DTS Active Trim harness.
5. Remove the weather cap from an unused connector on the helm harness
J‑box, and connect the DTS Active Trim harness 10‑pin connector.

eng 19
 INSTALLATION
ACTIVE TRIM WITH TRIM TAB INTERFACE KIT

a b e

61851

a - VCM
b - Trim tab interface harness (standard DTS Active Trim harness not
used)
c - Keypad assembly
d - J‑box (4‑way shown, actual configuration may vary)
e - Helm harness
f - Trim tabs

IMPORTANT: The Active Trim system will not control the trim tabs. The VCM
reads the tab sensor position and transmits it on CAN P for use with SmartCraft
gauges.
1. Ensure that the keypad assembly and VCM have been installed as
previously outlined.
2. Connect the trim tab interface harness to the VCM.
3. Ensure that the trim tab interface harness is connected to the J‑box.
4. Remove the weather cap from an unused connector on the helm harness
J‑box, and connect the keypad assembly 10‑pin connector.

20 eng
 INSTALLATION
WIRE COLOR CODE ABBREVIATIONS

Wire Color Abbreviations

BLK Black BLU Blue
BRN Brown GRY or GRA Gray
GRN Green ORN or ORG Orange
PNK Pink PPL or PUR Purple
RED Red TAN Tan
WHT White YEL Yellow
LT or LIT Light DK or DRK Dark

eng 21
 INSTALLATION
OUTBOARD NON-DTS APPLICATIONS
Outboard Single Engine Non‑DTS Applications, Panel or Console Control

c
GRN/WHT
RED/PPL
BLU/WHT

A B C

A B C

g
RUN

OFF

61847

22 eng
 INSTALLATION
a - Helm harness e - J‑box (4‑way shown, actual
b - Panel mount or console mount configuration may vary)
remote control (console mount f - Active Trim harness 3‑pin
shown, panel mount similar) connectors
c - Keypad assembly g - Active Trim harness
d - VCM

IMPORTANT: The Active Trim harness for non‑DTS applications is different

between Outboard and MerCruiser applications, and between single and
dual‑engine applications. Confirm that you have the correct harness for
single‑engine outboard applications prior to beginning the installation.
1. For 40/50/60 or 75/90/115 engines, install the digital to analog (D/A)
converter and digital trim sender kit. Instructions are supplied with the D/A
converter.
2. Ensure that the keypad assembly and VCM have been installed as
previously outlined.
3. Connect the Active Trim harness to the VCM. Refer to VCM Connection
(All Models).
4. Connect the keypad assembly to the Active Trim harness.
5. Remove the weather cap from an unused connector on the helm harness
J‑box, and connect the Active Trim harness 10‑pin connector.
6. For existing installations, disconnect the helm harness trim connector or
connectors from the remote control.
7. Connect the Active Trim harness to the 3‑pin trim connector on the helm
harness.
8. Connect the Active Trim harness to the remote control 3‑pin trim harness
connector.

eng 23
 INSTALLATION
Outboard Single Engine Non‑DTS Applications, Side Mount Control

b
j

d
i
TAN/LT BLU
GRN/WHT
BLU/WHT
RED

a h
RED/PPL

BLU/WHT

GRN/WHT

e
RED/PPL

BLU/WHT

GRN/WHT

f
g 61946

24 eng
 INSTALLATION
a - 14‑pin connector (to engine) f - Female trim adapter harness
b - Side mount remote control (used with optional trim switch)
c - J‑box (4‑way shown, actual g - Active Trim harness 3‑pin
configuration may vary) connectors
d - 10‑pin CAN terminator resistor h - Active Trim harness
(yellow) i - VCM
e - Male trim adapter harness j - Keypad assembly
1. For 40/50/60 or 75/90/115 engines, install the digital to analog (D/A)
converter and digital trim sender kit. Instructions are supplied with the D/A
converter.
2. Ensure that the keypad assembly and VCM have been installed as
previously outlined.
3. Connect the Active Trim harness to the VCM. Refer to VCM Connection
(All Models).
4. Connect the keypad assembly to the Active Trim harness.
5. Remove the weather cap from an unused connector on the helm harness
J‑box, and connect the Active Trim harness 10‑pin connector.
6. Connect the Active Trim harness 3‑pin connectors to the two trim adapter
harnesses, purchased separately.
7. Connect the male trim adapter harness to the remote control harness.
Red connects to red/purple, blue/white to blue/white, and green/white to
green/white.
8. Ensure that the four unused bullet connectors have weather plugs. This
includes the bullet connector for the tan/light blue wire on the remote
control harness.

eng 25
 INSTALLATION
Outboard Dual Engine Non‑DTS Applications

e g

a j

61848

26 eng
 INSTALLATION
a- VCM f - Power trim harness connector
b- Keypad assembly g - Starboard helm harness
c- Remote control h - Starboard harness 3‑pin
d- J‑box (4‑way shown, actual connectors
configuration may vary) i - Port harness 3‑pin connectors
e - Port helm harness j - Dual engine power trim adapter

IMPORTANT: The Active Trim harness for non‑DTS applications is different

between Outboard and MerCruiser applications, and between single and
dual‑engine applications. Confirm that you have the correct harness for
dual‑engine outboard applications prior to beginning the installation.
1. For 75/90/115 engines, install the digital to analog (D/A) converters and
digital trim sender kits. Instructions are supplied with the D/A converters.
2. Ensure that the keypad assembly and VCM have been installed as
previously outlined.
3. Connect the Active Trim harness to the VCM. Refer to VCM Connection
(All Models).
4. Connect the keypad assembly to the Active Trim harness.
5. Remove the weather cap from an unused connector on the helm harness
J‑box, and connect the Active Trim harness 10‑pin connector.
6. For existing installations, disconnect the dual engine power trim adapter
from the port and starboard helm harnesses.
7. Connect one Active Trim harness port connector to the port helm harness
3‑pin connector.
8. Connect the other Active Trim harness port connector to the dual engine
power trim adapter 3‑pin port connector.
9. Connect one Active Trim harness starboard connector to the starboard
helm harness 3‑pin connector.
10. Connect the other Active Trim harness starboard connector to the dual
engine power trim adapter 3‑pin starboard connector.

eng 27
 INSTALLATION
MERCRUISER NON-DTS APPLICATIONS
MerCruiser Single Engine Non‑DTS Applications

b
h
TAN

TAN

c
DK BLU/WHT

BLU/WHT
RED/WHT
PPL/WHT
GRN/WHT
PPL/WHT

YEL/RED
YEL/RED
GRN
RED

g f

d
RUN

OFF

61849

28 eng
 INSTALLATION
a - 14‑pin engine harness f - Remote control 4‑pin trim
connector harness connector
b - Remote control g - 4‑pin trim extension harness
c - Keypad assembly h - Transom harness connector
d - VCM
e - J‑box (4‑way shown, actual
configuration may vary)

NOTE: Refer to Outboard Single Engine Non‑DTS Applications for

MerCruiser applications equipped with outboard remote controls.
IMPORTANT: The Active Trim harness for non‑DTS applications is different
between Outboard and MerCruiser applications, and between single and
dual‑engine applications. Confirm that you have the correct harness for
single‑engine MerCruiser applications prior to beginning the installation.
1. Ensure that the keypad assembly and VCM have been installed as
previously outlined.
2. Connect the Active Trim harness to the VCM. Refer to VCM Connection
(All Models).
3. Connect the keypad assembly to the Active Trim harness.
4. Remove the weather cap from an unused connector on the helm harness
J‑box, and connect the Active Trim harness 10‑pin connector.
5. For existing installations, disconnect the 4‑pin trim extension harness from
the remote control 4‑pin trim harness connector.
6. Connect the Active Trim harness to the remote control 4‑pin trim harness
connector.
7. Connect the Active Trim harness to the 4‑pin trim extension harness.

eng 29
 INSTALLATION
MerCruiser Dual Engine Non‑DTS Applications

b
d
f

e g

a i h

k j

61850

30 eng
 INSTALLATION
a- VCM i- Port trim power harness 4‑pin
b- Keypad assembly connector
c- Remote control j - Starboard power trim extension
d- J‑box (4‑way shown, actual harness
configuration may vary) k - Port power trim extension
e- Port helm harness harness
f- Power trim harness connector l - MerCruiser dual engine power
g- Starboard helm harness trim adapter
h- Starboard power trim harness
4‑pin connector

IMPORTANT: The Active Trim harness for non‑DTS applications is different

between Outboard and MerCruiser applications, and between single and
dual‑engine applications. Confirm that you have the correct harness for
dual‑engine MerCruiser applications prior to beginning the installation.
1. Ensure that the keypad assembly and VCM have been installed as
previously outlined.
2. Connect the Active Trim harness to the VCM. Refer to VCM Connection
(All Models).
3. Connect the keypad assembly to the Active Trim harness.
4. Remove the weather cap from an unused connector on the helm harness
J‑box, and connect the Active Trim harness 10‑pin connector.
5. For existing installations, disconnect the dual engine power trim adapter
from the port and starboard power trim extension harnesses.
6. Connect the Active Trim harness port connector to the dual engine power
trim adapter 4‑pin port connector.
7. Connect the Active Trim harness port connector to the port power trim
extension harness 4‑pin connector.
8. Connect the Active Trim harness starboard connector to the dual engine
power trim adapter 4‑pin starboard connector.
9. Connect the Active Trim harness starboard connector to the starboard
power trim extension harness 4‑pin connector.

eng 31
 INSTALLATION
Trim Profiles Overview
MAJOR TRIM PROFILE CURVES
The Active Trim system can be configured to any of five unique major trim
profiles. The following illustration shows how the trim angle versus boat speed
curves will differ for each of the five major profiles.

5 4

a
1

61865
b

Example major trim profile curves; actual curves will vary

a - Trim angle
b - Boat speed

Configure the Active Trim system with the major trim profile that is most
appropriate for an individual boat and power package combination under
normal operating conditions.
Each major profile curve shown in the preceding example represents the
default, middle setting (adjustable trim profile 3) of a broader range of
adjustable trim profiles. Each major trim profile has a range of five user
adjustable trim profiles, to allow the operator to fine tune the trim curve during
boat operation, to compensate for differences in environmental conditions or
boat loading.
The upper limit of a selected major trim profile equates to user adjustable trim
profile 5. The lower limit equates to user adjustable trim profile 1. Refer to
Adjustable Profiles for additional detail.

32 eng
 INSTALLATION
MAJOR TRIM PROFILE CURVE OVERLAP
The ranges of the five major trim profiles overlap one another. Placing the trim
curve ranges for major profiles 4 and 3 (from the first graph) onto a single
graph shows a substantial overlap. The upper limit for major profile 3 is higher
than the lower limit for major profile 4, yielding a portion of the trim curve
ranges that are shared by both profiles. In practice, this means that slight
variations in the conditions at which the system is configured will not translate
to large variations in system performance.

a d
b
c g

f e

61867

Example major trim profile overlap; actual overlap will vary

a - Upper limit of major profile 4
b - Lower limit of major profile 4
c - This area (c) plus g equals the full range of major profile 4
d - Upper limit of major profile 3
e - Lower limit of major profile 3
f - This area (f) plus g equals the full range of major profile 3
g - Range overlap of major profiles 4 and 3

Setup and Configuration

CONFIGURATION NOTES
IMPORTANT: A Mercury service tool is required to set up Active Trim for dual
station applications or to enable the internal GPS receiver for use with
SmartCraft gauges. Refer to CDS G3 Setup.

eng 33
 INSTALLATION
IMPORTANT: Always configure Active Trim with a major profile that will allow
the operator to select an adjustable profile with additional trim in. That is, avoid
selecting a major profile that results in normal operation in adjustable trim
profile 1. This will ensure that the operator can always bring the bow down to
correct porpoising without having to manually trim the engine or drive.
CONFIGURATION PROCEDURE
1. Turn the ignition key switch to the on position.
2. Use the remote control handle trim switch to establish the full trim and tilt
range in the Active Trim module:
a. Trim the engine or sterndrive to the full down position and hold the
switch for five seconds after the engine or sterndrive reaches the full
down position.
b. Trim the engine or sterndrive to the full up (trailer) position and
continue to hold the trim up switch for five seconds after the engine or
sterndrive reaches the full up (trailer) position.
3. Return the engine or sterndrive to the down position before starting the
engine.

NOTICE
Avoid damaging the engine and drive from overheating. Never start or run
the power package without water circulating through the cooling system.
4. Start the engine and observe the keypad. Flashing amber lights on the
vertical LED trim display indicate that the Active Trim system is in the
setup mode and ready for activation.

34 eng
 INSTALLATION
NOTE: The system can be returned to the setup mode if necessary by
simultaneously pressing and holding the ON/RESUME + Up Arrow buttons for
five seconds.

a d

b e

61873

a- ON/RESUME button
b- OFF button
c- Trim profile indicator
d- Trim profile adjust Up Arrow
e- Trim profile adjust Down Arrow

5. Operate the vessel in open, navigable water.

6. Accelerate until the vessel is on plane and cruising at the approximate
desired speed. A comfortable cruising speed for most applications is
typically achieved between 48 and 64 km/h (30 and 40 mph).
IMPORTANT: RPM will increase as the sterndrive or engine is trimmed out.
7. Momentarily press the keypad Up Arrow or Down Arrow to adjust the
trim profile to the most efficient running attitude.
• The number of flashing lights will increase or decrease, accordingly.
NOTE: The topmost flashing light indicates the major profile currently selected.
• As a general rule, increase the major profile level until the boat begins
to porpoise. Then decrease one level.
8. Simultaneously press and release the Up Arrow + Down Arrow to
capture the most efficient running attitude and retain the optimum trim
profile in the Active Trim system's memory. The amber lights on the
vertical LED trim display will stop flashing, and the display will move to the
center profile position (level 3). The Active Trim is now ready to use.

CDS G3 Setup
NOTE: CDS G3 setup is required only for dual station applications and for
enabling the GPS receiver for use with SmartCraft gauges.
• For multiple stations, assign the Active Trim keypad locations by
performing a Trackpad Configuration in CDS G3. Next select the Active
Trim GPS tab and follow directions to select which Active Trim keypad
GPS helm source you would like to use.

eng 35
 INSTALLATION
• For enabling the GPS for SmartCraft gauges, select the Active Trim GPS
tab found in the Trackpad Configuration screen. Follow the on‑screen
instructions to enable the GPS for use with SmartCraft gauges. Only use
the Active Trim GPS to provide speed information for SmartCraft gauges
when there are no other GPS units in the system.

36 eng
 INSTALLATION
Templates
FLUSH MOUNT
IMPORTANT: Due to printing variables, the image size may have changed
from the actual size. Check the graphic for accuracy prior to using the template.

(1.969 in.)
50 mm
(0.50 in.)
12 mm
(3.937 in.)

(3.465 in.)
100 mm

88 mm

(2.125 in.)
54 mm

(1.496 in.)
38 mm

61852

eng 37
 INSTALLATION
SURFACE MOUNT
IMPORTANT: Due to printing variables, the image size may have changed
from the actual size. Check the graphic for accuracy prior to using the template.

(0.25 in.)
6.35 mm

(0.109 in.)
2.768 mm
(1.575 in.)
40 mm

(4.252 in.)
108 mm
(2.125 in.)
54 mm

(1.89 in.)
48 mm

61853

38 eng