calling tabman 2

[mattttt25]

after reading your other posts, i would just like to pick your brain and get an opinion.<br /><br />i run a 1997 sunbird 200 center console. dry weight is approx 2400 lbs. on the back i have a 1998 johnson 150hp oceanrunner, weight 375 lbs. i have a great hole shot and good top end. performance is pretty good in the chop, and actually seems to be better as i get moving. run mostly in the chesapeake bay and it's rivers.<br /><br />would i realize a gain in performance from tabs? would it be a waste of money for my small rig? what would be a rough price estimate on a set that would fit me? could i install myself?<br /><br />really appreciate your valuable help. i think i speak for all when i say thanks for offering your knowledge in this particular area.

 

[Sea Hawk]

Re: calling tabman 2

Hear Hear !!!!!!!!!!! I'll second that. Many thanks to Tabman for all your help. <br /><br />P.s. I'll do some more measurin' and sipherin' tomorrow and let you know abot the 18" tabs.

 

[Tabman II]

Re: calling tabman 2

mattttt25,<br /><br />Well, lets start by finding out what you would like to gain by installing trim tabs, since performance gain can mean many different things to different people. Any vessel can benefit from installing trim tabs, some examples are Increase Performance (reduced pounding, list correction, eliminate porpoising, offset prop torque), Increase Efficiency (reduce fuel consumption & engine laboring, eliminate squatting), & Increase Safety (improve visibility, reduce wake, reduce hull stress). Your 20' Sunbird by our General Sizing Recommendations falls in the 18 x 9 trim tab range, but depending on the Available Mounting Area you may have to step down in size (16 x 12, 14 x 12, or 12 x 12). The next thing to check is Available Mounting Area, that is determined by starting 3-4" from the chine and measuring to within 8" of the outdrive. The measurement that you get will be the Available Mounting Area you have to work with. In general, the largest trim tabs that will comfortably fit on the transom will be the most efficient. Check the transom for protrusions (transducers, speed wheels...). Protrusions may have to be moved before the trim tabs can be installed, or influence your choice of trim tabs. The closer you can stay to the 18 x 9’s the better the performance will be for slow speeds and hole shot. Some vessels have plumbing troubles because of their design, but we have a few tricks that will normally cover any situation you run up against. It is just a matter of taken a look and explaining to me your woes. So, please take a look at your transom and get back to me with your findings.<br /><br />I look forward to your reply.<br /><br />Sincerely,<br />MJ Thomas<br />Bennett Marine, Inc.<br />Client Services<br />www.bennetttrimtabs.com