Boating How-To’s - Trim Tabs too far in please HELP!

Guys,

I just got my trim tabs "professionally" installed, but according to Lenco's installation guide they should be no more than 4 inches in from the chine and 3/8" from the bottom edge of the transom. Mine are close to 8 inches from the chine, and are at the very edge of the transom, even sticking out a couple of milimiters. According to my basic knowledge, the fact that they are too far in will make the boat less stable and the fact that they are sticking out or to close to the edge of the transom might generate water resistance making the boat less efficient. What do you all think? i am going to the dealer to talk to them tomorrow, but i wanted to have some idea as to whether my assumptions were right or not. Thanks for your help.

I know this doesnt help much,, but this is just one more reason to do things yourself:mad:

How wide is your beam? Can't imagine 4" would make a huge difference.

Saltydawg, the beam is 8.6, its a 2007 proline 23 sport. How about the fact that they are sticking out a bit? should i worry about that? thanks

Island Marine, I agree with you, I just thought that paying a professional would get the job done better, but it is never the case. So frustrating!!!

When you retract them all the way will they stick out? Also remember that when you go to lower your bow they will be below the boat anyway.

I would test it in the water if you haven't already and see if it handles any differently. I personally do not think it would hinder performance being a few inches in and a bit lower than recommended. If I was you I would ping tab man and ask him,he is from Bennett but I have seen him offer insight on other products as well, he is great.

Guys,

I just got my trim tabs "professionally" installed, but according to Lenco's installation guide they should be no more than 4 inches in from the chine and 3/8" from the bottom edge of the transom. Mine are close to 8 inches from the chine, and are at the very edge of the transom, even sticking out a couple of milimiters. According to my basic knowledge, the fact that they are too far in will make the boat less stable and the fact that they are sticking out or to close to the edge of the transom might generate water resistance making the boat less efficient. What do you all think? i am going to the dealer to talk to them tomorrow, but i wanted to have some idea as to whether my assumptions were right or not. Thanks for your help.

Mfaleni,

Can you tell me what kind of boat you have and what size Trim Tabs were installed?

Also importantly can you tell me how much the trailing edge is above the bottom of the hull? It's the 5/8" measurement in this drawing.
http://i110.photobucket.com/albums/n109/tlmcgow/lenstal.jpg
The upward angle when the Trim Tabs are retracted is what prevents them from generating too much drag when not in use. But the leading edge should never be below the hull!

Tom McGow
Bennett Marine