Power Tilt&Trim with Trim Tabs

gshaw-mi3gto

Recruit
Joined
Nov 24, 2009
Messages
5
Folks what if any are the advantages (disadvantages?) of installing trim tabs (like Bennett) if your outboard has PT&T. In my case the T&T is a after market CMC unit which puts the engine back from transom by 6" (70hp) The boat is 17ft cathedral hull.

I was thinking of adding a set of trim tabs, but is this over kill? Boat most often used at sea.

Would I be better going with a fixed trim outboard with trim tabs or go the whole hog and fit trim tabs to the existing CMC mounted trim/tilt unit.

(BTW the CMC is being fitted as I can't find a add on tilt and trim for the Evinrude 70773s 1977 70hp engine, there used to be a kit but no more so if anyone has a spare PTT unit to fit this engine get in touch :)

George (IN THE UK)
 

Chris1956

Supreme Mariner
Joined
Mar 25, 2004
Messages
28,885
Re: Power Tilt&Trim with Trim Tabs

George, Tabs push the bow down. Motor Trim lifts the bow. There are times when you want one of these, and some times when you mix the two.

In the ocean, putting the bow down with tabs, lowers speed and improves the ride. If you raise the trim, you will gain speed and get a rougher ride.

If your boat is bow heavy, tabs are not really necessary.
 

Home Cookin'

Fleet Admiral
Joined
May 26, 2009
Messages
9,715
Re: Power Tilt&Trim with Trim Tabs

Tabs are also good for lateral adjustments. However I think they are overkill on a 17' boat, and I don't think you want to be dropping the bow on a cathedral; the ride will go from bumpy to jerky (dig and slide, dig and slide). I'd use that money for something more fun.
 
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