Trim Tabs

[rickyp52]

I have a 1989 Sea Ray 220 Sundancer. It has factory installed trim tabs which to me seem rather small for the size of the boat (it's 23'8" overall with 8'6" beam). The tabs measure 8"x12". When I have more than 2 or 3 people on board, they just don't seem to allow enough adjustment. Is there a rule of thumb for the size of the tab vs. the size of the boat? Thanks.

 

[Tabman II]

Re: Trim Tabs

rickyp52,<br /><br />Hi, I'm Thomas and I work for Bennett Marine in the Client Service department. <br /><br />Well, there are many answers to your question, but this link will take you to "our" sizing guidelines; http://www.bennetttrimtabs.com/size1.htm. As you can see, your system isn't that far off, but the largest trim tabs that will "comfortably" fit on your transom will be the most efficient. Please do me favor, take a look at your transom and get back to me with your Available Mounting Area (determined by starting 3-4" from the chine and measuring to within 8" of the outdrive). This will let me know what we have to work with and where to start! Also, provide me with a description of your trim tab system (overall size, special shape, # of actuators per tab, where are they mounted), so I will have a good idea of what you have installed. Please get back to me with this information at trimtabs@earthlink.net.<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

 

[BigBabyLou]

Re: Trim Tabs

Ricky,<br /><br />I have a 26-footer and my trim tabs are about 12"x12". Even with 6 people onboard I do not have any problems leveling out the boat. I would think that the size of your trim tabs would be sufficient.<br /><br />Are you sure that the trim tabs work right? Do you have enough fluid in the reservoir? Did you visually check the operation and travel of the tabs? Any growth on them?<br /><br />I'm not trying to imply that you are wrong or anything, I'm just asking obvious things I would check myself before getting bigger trim tabs.<br /><br />Hope it works out for you.<br />See ya on the water!<br />Lou

 

[Tabman II]

Re: Trim Tabs

rickyp52,<br /><br />BigBabyLou makes a very good point about the trim tabs operating or not. Please make sure they are operating correctly and if not get back to me with your findings (trimtabs@earthlink.net), so we can get your system up and running!<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