Hydrofoil vs trim tabs

backlog

Recruit
Joined
Oct 19, 2015
Messages
1
I have a Stingray 208LR. Great boat, but seems to take a while to get on plane with the bow high out of the water. More of an issue is that it porpoises as soon as I trim the outdrive unless I have passengers in the bow. I have spoken to 2 dealers and some other people and some say add a hydrofoil and others say go with smart tabs. What is the opinion of folks on this forum? If I tried the hydrofoil, how is the Sport Marine SE Sport 400 Hydro Foil for 40HP and up? No drilling required so if I don't like it I can just take it off.
 

Bonus Check

Petty Officer 2nd Class
Joined
Apr 19, 2015
Messages
162
Smart Tabs. Don't put the strain on the motor. Welcome to iboats. Search the forums for Smart tabs
 
Last edited by a moderator:

Cat nip

Petty Officer 1st Class
Joined
Jul 25, 2015
Messages
288
I had the smart tabs 2 boats ago and let me tell you they were awesome! The boat would not leave plane. And the boat would not roll in turns . The only thing I could possibly see as a down side is that iI could not get the bow up even if I wanted to.
 

Frank Acampora

Supreme Mariner
Joined
Jan 19, 2007
Messages
12,004
Add to that the hydro-foil is one size fits all while the Smart Tabs are sized for the hull and have different rate cylinders for applications. They are probably a better choice in your case.
 

Chris1956

Supreme Mariner
Joined
Mar 25, 2004
Messages
28,295
Power-adjustable tabs are the best, although they are the most pricey. You trim them down for take off, and can adjust them underway for whatever weight distribution you have. If the boat is unbalanced side to side, that can be fixed as well with power adjustable tabs.

Save your $ and get those....
 

steelespike

Supreme Mariner
Joined
Apr 26, 2002
Messages
19,069
Smart tabs without question. They do need to be adjusted with just enough tension to solve your needs.
Sounds like cat nips were just a little too tight.If it turns out you need less tension they will send you some.to solve your problem.
 

wahlejim

Master Chief Petty Officer
Joined
Jul 23, 2015
Messages
884
Smart tabs are much more effective and customize able for any application. I never thought about smart tabs until I bought a boat with them already installed and I will never own a boat without them again.
 
Top