replacing stainless steel smart tab actuators with bennett acuators????

KBGATOR

Recruit
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Apr 9, 2020
Messages
4
I currently have ss manual smart tabs on my boat, I want to replace the actuators with bennett electric. are the smart tabs strong enough for this?
 

dingbat

Supreme Mariner
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Nov 20, 2001
Messages
16,622
They wouldn't make a retrofit kit if it wasn't a feasible solution.

FWIW: I'm no fan of electric actuators. Water the electricity don't mix....for long
 

KBGATOR

Recruit
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Apr 9, 2020
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4
who makes the retrofit kit? I contacted nauticus they said it couldn't be done.
 

KBGATOR

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Apr 9, 2020
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fyi: i'm wanting to keep the trim tabs, just put in actuators and hardware.
 

Alumarine

Captain
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Feb 22, 2005
Messages
3,752
From your other thread, you could fill the holes with 3M 5200 sealant if you replace the tabs.
 

JimS123

Fleet Admiral
Joined
Jul 27, 2007
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8,316
who makes the retrofit kit? I contacted nauticus they said it couldn't be done.

Bennets are really high grade parts and are adjustable for all conditions. Nauticus are composite. If nauticus won't allow it, what's the question?

You didn't say what boat or engine, so its hard to make recommendations. Likely you could spend $39 for a Doel Fin and have even better performance.

Regardless, if you go the optional route, be sure to fill in the massive amount of holes in your transom with 5200, and hope that it wasn't rotten already.
 

alldodge

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Mar 8, 2009
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43,229
If you want to install and don't worry about it again, install bennett
If your going to sell the boat in a few years buy what ever
 

Blind Date

Chief Petty Officer
Joined
Mar 5, 2014
Messages
462
Understand that Smart tabs & Bennett trim tabs perform two completely different functions. Don't let the fact that they look somewhat the same fool you.

Smart tabs are a planing device. Hydraulic trim tabs are for load leveling and can be used to adjust hull attitude while on plane. The Bennett hydraulic system is static, Smart Tabs are dynamic.
 
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