Trim tabs on a jon boat*

12jonLowe

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Aug 20, 2020
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So I saw a jon boat awhile back with 6"x 8" trim tabs installed. This person swore by it saying it made such a difference. Now, I have a 12 foot flat bottom as well. What im wondering is anyone else out there done or seen something similar? Im just trying to determine if its worth it.
 

Texasmark

Supreme Mariner
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Dec 20, 2005
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14,706
Superb idea. Biggest problem with tiller operated boats with one person is getting the bow down and the boat on "plane"....out of the water and on it...like 20+ MPH or greater.
 

DeepCMark58A

Commander
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Aug 17, 2015
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Superb idea. Biggest problem with tiller operated boats with one person is getting the bow down and the boat on "plane"....out of the water and on it...like 20+ MPH or greater.


I have a 1448 jon with a tunnel hull and the motor up higher than the transom. Have a 15 hp 4 stroke honda with electric start . Keep the gas in back along with the battery. 15 hp motor on a boat rated for a 35 hp motor. Never had a problem with the boat getting on plane quickly.
 

Texasmark

Supreme Mariner
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Dec 20, 2005
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Great. I never had that much hp with a tiller setup on any boat and never ran a tunnel hull so I have no reference to the differences. No doubt ponies do make a difference and a bigger difference if you have PTT.
 

Stinnett21

Chief Petty Officer
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Jun 24, 2012
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507
I've never done such a thing (trim tabs on a small jon boat) but I bet they would make a world of difference. That's the kind of set up that begs for it. The problem would be getting them fitted. The top actuator connection may be above the transom.
 

Texasmark

Supreme Mariner
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Dec 20, 2005
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14,706
I have seen ones that have the hinged L shaped bracket with the 30* manual setting device an adjustable screw type thing. Transom mounting height appears to be no more than 6-8" above the bottom of the boat.

Smart Tabs (brand) SX Performance Plus, composite trim tabs can be had for 13-15' boats, max 40 hp engine. In my 2011 marine supplier catalog they are priced at $130/pair....no idea as to today's prices. Other mfgr.s you might try are Lenco or Bennett...didn't research their product lines.
 
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