Is it necessary to have the boat in the water in order to raise the outdrive up and down? I tried this earlier tonight (with it sitting in my driveway) and it didn't go up or down. I do know that I have a bad connection at the battery terminals though. Any thoughts?

yes u need 12volts to raise or lower the motor in or out of the water

fix your terminals and clean the top of the battery off also

also these guys here http://www.coastsidefishingclub.com can help