Tilt/Trim, Jack plate, and trim tabs

[BlazinKuztumz]

Ok guys, I'm a newbie to boating, and the iBoats forum. I've got multiple posts up about my new project boat, and motor issues. I've gotten a ton of help from this wonderful board, including a few really knowledgeable, and generous people who are helping me out with parts to rebuild my motor. Now on to my new questions:

Does anyone know any part numbers, sources, or typical pricing for a tilt/trim setup for an 1987 85hp Force motor?

Jack plate information for same said motor?
Jack plates are a new thing to me, but I like what I've heard about being able to adjust motor height to be able to go into shallower water.

And last but not least, trim tabs. Are these just tabs that have a hydraulic damper on them that help stabilize the boat when on a plain? Are there versions that you can set from the console as well? I've done some research, but haven't found any "real" answers that satisfied my curiosity.

Thanks.

 

[Frank Acampora]

Re: Tilt/Trim, Jack plate, and trim tabs

Tilt/trim units for your engine come up on the auctions frequently. You can also private message RRitt. Used ones on the auctions typically run fro a couple of hundred up. You can usually buy a whole engine for not much more and salvage parts.

Consider though If you are going to spring for a power jack plate, why not go the little extra and get one with tilt/trim. Might be more cost effective.

The guys on the prop and boating forums seem to like Smart Tabs. They are not powered but spring loaded to compensate for conditions. Relatively inexpensive. The guys think they are the best thing since sliced bread. I reserve my opinion. I suspect that you really get what you pay for. If they do the job for you---GREAT. But some people really only want powered adjustable trim tabs. Think before you buy: Your boat may not need either! First thing to do would be to play with engine height on transom, trim, and prop size.