Question for Nautijohn!!!

[boatster]

Hi Nautijohn,<br /><br />so I've decided to give your trim tabs a try. I have a 13' Avon Searider (ex-coastguard) rigid hull inflatable with a deep v running a 50 hp outboard. I will be using this in the Pacific Ocean to cross the channel to the islands. I accidentally purchased the trim tabs with the 30 lb actuators. My question is, should I be using the 30 lb or the 40 lb actuators? Whats difference will I experience with the 10 lbs between the two? Thanks.<br /><br />Boaster

 

[Jdeagro]

Re: Question for Nautijohn!!!

Boaster; <br /><br />Since the actuators are the same physical size we can exchange them if necessary. If the motor is a 2 stroke you should be just fine. You may need to increase the lift pressure above the mid point but I would just put them on and run the boat. If you have a question, or feel you need the 40 Lb actuators call us. (800-233-0194).

 

[boatster]

Re: Question for Nautijohn!!!

Nautijohn,<br /><br />it is a 2 stroke. I will install the 30 lb actuators and see how it goes. Thanks.<br /><br />Boatster

 

[boatster]

Re: Question for Nautijohn!!!

Just wanted to say, Thank you Nautijohn!!! Your trim tabs work like a charm. I tried my new searider before installing your smart tabs and got huge pitch on take off as well as bouncey running in short period waves. Then today I spent 2-3 hours installing your trim tabs and took to the water to see how they work. I could not believe it, Night and Day difference. The boat hardly pitched on take off and cruising at speed is soo smooth and level. They are amazing.<br /><br />One observation. It seems the boat pretty much stays level even when I adjust the trim of the motor within reason. I would almost think the importance of the power trim on the motor has been relegated some. I still can't believe how smooth the boat runs on rough water. My one question is if I'm heading into really rough seas wouldn't I want the nose up just a little bit? Today I pretty much couldn't get the boat to be anything but level. A testament to well thought out design, materials, and installation of your product. Thank you.<br /><br />Sincerely,<br /><br />Adam/Boatster

 

[Jdeagro]

Re: Question for Nautijohn!!!

boatster;<br /><br />Glad to hear you are happy! It sounds as though the pressure setting ( probably in the middle now) is a bit too high. Try moving the ball stud for the actuator at the plate bracket closer to the plate. check the manual! One rule of thumb is that the adjsutment is correct when the boat runs as fast or faster with the trim tabs. If the boat is now a bit slower the pressure adjustment needs to be reduced.

 

[boatster]

Re: Question for Nautijohn!!!

Thanks Nautijohn, <br /> I will give that a try. I have one more question please: When I'm in a following sea I'm inclined to think that the trim tabs should be disabled somehow so I can keep the nose up so as not to stuff or get broached. Does this seem reasonable? Or if properly adjusted it shouldn't be a problem? Again I'm going out in the Pacific Ocean where wave heights and periods will vary and could get a little rough. My intended route would be between Southern California and the outer channel islands. I usually return in the afternoons where there is some windswell following me.

 

[Jdeagro]

Re: Question for Nautijohn!!!

I lived and boated in those waters for 20 years, and they can be tough. Make sure you do not have too much pressure on the tabs. quick way to know if there is too much pressure, if the boat runs slower with the tabs than without, you need to reduce the pressure. That said, in following seas you will be able to adjust your speed up and down to aviod surfing and still stay on plane. You should also use the motor trim to adjsut the bow. Speed is the key, along with motor trim. And of course be safe!<br /><br />Regards<br />John Nauticus, Inc<br />Smart Tabs

 

[boatster]

Re: Question for Nautijohn!!!

Ok. Sounds good to me. Thanks again.<br /><br />Boatster,