Kiekaefer trim tab question
 

I have the older style Kiekaefer trim tabs and i am in the process of removing them to blast and repaint them, the question i have is the bulkhead fitting for the hydrulic(sp?) lines, does it also hold the tabs on also? I Removed all of the bolts holding them on, but I did not want to try to pull on them if they were. If they don't hold them on, it is much easier to remove the tab and then the hose fittings. Thanks in advance!

I just redid my tabs. The line fitting needs to be taken off. There should be a nipple that goes through the transom. The nut has to come off one side.

Yes, the thru hull fitting does help hold the tab on, as long as it has a nut on it. It screws into the rear of the tab mounting plate and is secured to the tab with the nut on the outside. After installed, a nut is put on the inside before the hyd. line goes on and it helps to hold the tab in place. If it doesn't have a nut on the inside, then it's not doing anything. I doubt you will be able to remove the thru hull before the tab is off the boat. They usually corrode pretty bad into the tab and are tough to get off.
Eddie

Thanks guys! :drink: Yeah, It is double nutted on each bulkhead fitting but it does not look too corroded. I hit it with some Kroil for the past couple of days, it should do the trick! I couldn't believe how thick the transom is on this little apache! when i get the bulkhead fitting off I am going to measure it.