another trim tab "?"

[cpasseno03]

I need some trim tabs too. But this is for a big boat. 28 foot steel Chris Craft, twin 350s. This is what I plan to do, Put a sheet of thinnish metal extending off the stern, full width. Lay some wolmanized 2X6 on it, and wrap the edge with angle iron or channel. My dad did this on a 21 foot steel boat and he said it was a huge help. It was also tough enough to back into stuff and survive(a must since it was a little tugboat) I would like to adopt this idea for the C.C. but I have been warned that I will need to be able to adjust them on the fly pertaining to conditions and load, etc. I think the boat is big enough so that the load and conditions wouldnt be enough to change any ride characteristics to warrant the extra cost. Another point is that having two little ones, they would have to be almost straight down.(I think) One big one (10foot by 2) would only have to angle down 3 or 4 degrees, seems more efficient. What do you guys think of this? good/bad? It makes a nice submerged swim platform too.<br />Thanks<br />Craig

 

[magster65]

Re: another trim tab "?"

Well... that would probably work for a certain speed but you may find you'd like to adjust them quite often given the option. i.e. More fuel in one tank, more passengers on one side, different tab setting for different cruise speed. Bennett makes tabs for boats up to 80'. They'll have something that's exactly what you need. If you choose to build them yourself, maybe copy the size they use and make the adjustment as easy as possible? I've had them on my present (27') and last 2 boats (22.5' @ 26') and use them all the time. They make a big difference... and no, I don't work for Bennett. <br /> http://www.bennetttrimtabs.com/

 

[cpasseno03]

Re: another trim tab "?"

Thanks Magster. I will admit I am still kind of skecptical, Its a heavy boat at least 6 tons. One fuel tank in the back. I dont think two or three people on one side does anything to it. (dont have much time in her) But when we pulled the port engine (what, 5, 600 pounds?) It was only about 5 or 6 inches higher. with a 10 foot beam. Oh and did I mention I dont have much money to spend? I have three boats I would like to fix up this spring, and I dont even have a job right now! Anyway, thanks for the link, Im wandering around there now considering different things.<br />Craig

 

[Boatist]

Re: another trim tab "?"

Craig<br />Trim tabs need to be adjustable unless you only go out on the nicest days and exact same load. For me If I am coming in on a day with 8 foot swell every 8 seconds when I go over the swell with a following sea I do not want any trim. The trim would keep the bow to low and also try to turn the boat into a surf board down the face of the wave. As wind and sea conditions change need to change trim for saftey.