I have a 2011 Mud Buddy BD 4500. This year model has the "football" control handle and Mercury Tilt/Trim unit. The football control handle has the tilt/trim, kill switch and electric clutch switch all mounted in the handle.

After about 1-2 years with this motor, i started having problems with the tilt/trim...mainly intermittent working and sticking in up or down. Like many of you on this forum, i replaced the trim switch and the relays on the motor. The problem never went away so i decided to look into it closer.

Here is what my problem was. The inner, plastic body of the trim switch is mounted/installed so close to the end of the handlebar (metal) that it becomes "twisted" or "in a bind" against the handle bar when the football handle is closed up. This does not allow the plastic innards of the switch to function properly. I learned this by installing/removing the switch multiple time and it always worked when it was removed. To correct this, i took a Dremel tool and notched the opening in the handle for the trim switch about 1/8" wider (away from the handlebar). This does not affect the mounting of the trim switch because its mounting tabs are in the longitudinal direction. This is just enough to get the switch off the handlebar and allow it to function properly. It may leave a small gap along the edge of the trim switch that would be open to the inside of the football handle. You can close this with a small amount of caulk, or fabricate a small trim bracket to go under the switch/on top of the football handle.

Also, another problem that can affect the function of this trim switch in the same way, is when the football handle becomes loose. Take off the bottom of the football handle (4 screws). The top of the football handle is attached to a flat metal bracket with 3 screws. Remove the top half of the football handle. That flat metal bracket is riveted to the handlebar. If it is loose, it will need to be re-secured to the handlebar with new rivets.

Hope this helps someone!!!!

Never had a problem with trim switch clearance, would have to see a picture of what you are talking about.

If drilling out the old rivets on the football, reinstall with stainless rivets and you shouldn't have a problem for a long time.