mikexl

What size tabs should I have installed on this boat? Is hydraulic better than electric?

Tabman

Mike,

A set of M80 8" x 10" sport tabs would be ideal for your Grady. I work for Bennett and we make hydraulic Tabs. We feel that they are far superior then the electric type which have a reputation for failure. For more info check out this web page: http://www.bennetttrimtabs.com/whatdo.htm

Tom
Bennett Marine

mikexl

Tabman, according to the Bennett website I should be using the 18" wide tabs? 1" for every foot of boat? Why would the 80s work as well?

Thanks for all your help on the topic!

Mike...

Tabman

Mike,

That is a very good question. The whole idea of designing the M80 and M120 Tabs was to make them use as little space on the transom while still providing good lift. If you look at the photos of the M80s and M120s you will notice that sides of the Tabs are bent downwards like little fins. These fins capture water pressure that is normally lost out the sides of the Tabs and channels it aft. This extra waterflow and pressure really make a difference and the little will work great on your boat.

Tom
Bennett Marine

mikexl

Tabman,

What type of bottom paint do you recommend for the tabs and actuators below the water line?

Tabman

The secret to getting anti-fouling paint to adhere to your trim tabs is proper priming, and the best people to tell you what to do are the experts at the company that makes your anti-fouling paint. We strongly suggest that you contact the paint manufacturer and tell them you are painting "304 stainless steel" trim tabs, then follow their recommendations to the letter! Remember don't paint under the zincs.

You can usually use the same bottom paint on the actuators, without primer.

Tom
Bennett Marine