Another smart tabs thread

[RubberFrog]

I finally got around to installing my smart tabs.<br />I was a little uneasy about using the foam strips supplied with the kit. I opted for using 4200. Sealing holes in the transom seemed too important to rely on a piece of foam. Any thoughts on this?<br />Also, I was forced to mount the tabs at about 26-27 degrees,due to the configuration of my transom/swim step/chine pattern.<br />Finally, my transom leans backward with a step-like structure. Because of this, my transom brackets are about 4" to the rear of the hinge plate. Does that make sense?<br />My boat runs very heavy in the rear because a 40 gallon gas tank, 2 batteries, and an ice chest are located in the rear. The ice chest is there to balance the 2 batteries.<br />With all that in mind, should I still expect the miracles others seem to report from their smart tabs? I hope so....<br />George<br /><br />P.S: I called Nauticus with a question about a washer (I think it was John that answered?) and the person who answered was very friendly and helpful.

 

[Omega-1]

Re: Another smart tabs thread

Rubber frog,<br />Whenever I drill a hole in the transom, I usually put a marine sealant caulk material on the screw threads and into the pilot hole to make sure there is a good seal, and let the caulk cure before going out in the water.<br />I presume that the Smart Tabs are fixed tabs set at an angle which can be readjusted mechanically, and that you are installing them to keep your bow down? If this is so, you will need to adjust the angle of the tabs for the best hull trim for your boat by trial and error until you find the best bow attitude to put you on plane at the most efficient RPM. I hope this helps. Be safe.

 

[walleyehed]

Re: Another smart tabs thread

These tabs are self actuating.....<br />I've set mine up in every configuration I could come up with, and, I think if you are at 26-27 degs., you'll be ok...you may want to move the mounting ball "in" torwards transom slightly to reduce pressure a bit for the added degs. of drop but I don't think 2 degrees will be an issue.<br />Omega-1, these tabs are up once on plane, but continue to adjust as pressures change...I believe these are being used and endorsed by the USCG and several other military operators.

 

[Jdeagro]

Re: Another smart tabs thread

Rubber Frog;<br /><br />Once you get the boat in the water for a sea trial, let me know the results and if you need advice don't hesitate to call.

 

[RubberFrog]

Re: Another smart tabs thread

Thanks for the feedback guys.<br />Omega- good idea about the sealant.<br />walleyhed- thanks for the tip.<br />nautijohn- I'll be taking her out over the 4th. I'll definately give you my feedback.<br />George

 

[gewf631]

Re: Another smart tabs thread

Not to hijack this thread, but after installing SmartTabs, I finally got a chance to get my boat in the water this weekend.

Crowded lake, so nothing scientific - just a 'seat of the pants' impression. Boat is an 18-ft Starcraft SuperSport (aluminum), with a 115HP Merc O/B.

Whether hole-shot, or steady acceleration, I used to experience a fair amount of bow rise. Now she just jumps right up - rise was non-existant. She also stayed on plane at a lower speed - again, crowded lake, so it was difficult to just cruise-around, but I certainly noticed the difference.

Just consider me another satisfied customer.

 

[BrianS.]

Re: Another smart tabs thread

So would those that use them say they are just as good as hydraulic tabs?

 

[Jdeagro]

Re: Another smart tabs thread

Brian S.

Let me but in here and keep this from becoming a debate. From our point of view (Nauticus Smart Tabs) we look at the use of the boat as the basic criteria for desiding if Smart Tabs or helm controlled tabs are best suited. If the boat is a destination boat, that is to say that the boat is used to cruise for extended periods of time in any given direction, then helm controlled tabs are appropriate. If the boat is a sport boat, used for fishing, or skiing, or towing inflatables, then we feel Smart Tabs are appropriate.

Why do we make this distinction? Destination boats leave point "A" on a course to point "B". The Speed and trim is set and done.

A sport boat changes speed and direction as well as starting and stoping numerous times, which would required numerous changes in trim tab settings.

This is a bit simplistic but I think may help you deside what product you should choose for your boat and use.

 

[BrianS.]

Re: Another smart tabs thread

Great explanation, thank you.

I will probably opt for the Helm ones since I plan on cruising for about an hour 1 way across the Pacific.