trim tabs on a 16ft bass tracker

[BassMan31]

will trim tabs help get my boat on plane? I already have a foil and it does not get it on plane. I am running a 15hp merc. Are tim tabs even an option for my situation? I am very confused.

 

[DJ]

Re: trim tabs on a 16ft bass tracker

BassMan31,<br /><br />You are on the lower end of the performance curve. Absolutely no insult is intended here.<br /><br />I believe that trim tabs would be a waste of time for you. Perhaps, a redistribution of weight might be more effective.

 

[Boatist]

Re: trim tabs on a 16ft bass tracker

I agree I think you need more power. I did make a set of fixed tabs for my 14 foot Aluminum boat with a 15 hp motor. It would plane fine with one but with two and fishing gear would never plane. I made the fixed tabs for about $5 out of some 1 1/2 inch square tubbing that I glued to the back of the boat.<br /><br />Even a piece aluminum angle you could make a cheap fixed trim tab. I adjusted mine twice before I got it right. I used mine to keep the bow down when along in the boat.

 

[catfish1]

Re: trim tabs on a 16ft bass tracker

i'm with these guys, trim tabs would be a waste of money! you simply need more power. maybe something in the 40hp-60hp range.

 

[Jdeagro]

Re: trim tabs on a 16ft bass tracker

Hi bassman31;<br /><br />now here is a good experiment. I also believe that the boat is underpowered, but i do have a few questions. First is the motor running well? Second is this the origional set up from Bass Tracker?<br /><br />If yes is the answer to the questions, contact me at 800-233-0194. I would be willing to work on the project to see just how much improvement we can make. go to the web site for more info www.nauticusinc.com

 

[BassMan31]

Re: trim tabs on a 16ft bass tracker

Thanks for the advice guys. I am going this weekend to see my motor shop about some more horses.

 

[AW]

Re: trim tabs on a 16ft bass tracker

I assume you have tried different trim positions and made sure you have the right prop. If not you should, its a lot cheaper than a new engine. Of course I'm all for more power.

 

[BassMan31]

Re: trim tabs on a 16ft bass tracker

Would you happen to know what the right prop would be.

 

[AW]

Re: trim tabs on a 16ft bass tracker

For a boat that big it probably is the lowest pitch available for that engine.<br /><br />Generally if you are having trouble planing going to a lower pitch prop will help, but if that is a good solution, or even if its possible depends on a lot of things, including what prop you have now, and what is available for your particular engne.<br /><br />Again, I am all for more power.

 

[walleyehed]

Re: trim tabs on a 16ft bass tracker

For the sake of comparison, I've got a 1982, 17ft Basstracker, flat-bottom, with a 70hp merc on it...needless to say, hole-shot isn't an issue.<br />I had a 16ft'r with a 35hp Johnny, and it needed all 35 of it......

 

[catfish1]

Re: trim tabs on a 16ft bass tracker

yep! my brother has a 17ft bass tracker with a 35hp merc. anyhow its a guttless turd and he's always been less than satisfied with it.

 

[rickdb1boat]

Re: trim tabs on a 16ft bass tracker

Agree with DJ. Waste of time with that set up. Save your money for other improvments, like a bigger motor..