Big cats and tunnel tabs

mmwalters · 07-24-2005, 11:50 AM

Last fall in key west I noticed some of the big cats mostly the MTI boats had lexan tunnel tabs. Can someone explain the reason to use lexan instead of aluminum? I am guessing that the lexan will flex minimizing the stress on the tab and boat. Also what is the life of the lexan?

mmwalters · 07-25-2005, 11:59 PM

Ttt????

1HYPER1 · 07-26-2005, 12:12 AM

Hey Mike I would be willing to bet you if you called JT he would point you in the correct direction,I know he has tested both .

dhlaw · 07-26-2005, 09:29 AM

My understanding is that there is some advantage to the flexibility of the lexan in the efficiency of the tab. It was explained by someone racing with one that the curvature gives better lift and less flow interruption which means higher speeds. The old tabs just had a joint and pins, the new ones seem to just bend downward when activated.

bryanh · 07-27-2005, 07:52 PM

That would be correct, we use Carbon Fiber and it works the same way.

mmwalters · 07-27-2005, 09:52 PM

Am I to understand The lexan tabs use no hinge but rather deflect the lexan to compress the air?

bryanh · 07-28-2005, 09:14 AM

I would assume they are set up the same way we are and we have no hinge. The assembly bolts directly into the tunnel and it flex's downward. Remember that we are not moving the tab more than 5 to 6 inches.

mmwalters · 07-28-2005, 09:47 AM

bryanh Thanks that explains it. I have seen that setup before, I don't why I did not relate that to the lexan plate.

Reindl Powerboats · 07-29-2005, 03:31 PM

The Lexan looks great, I have an extra tunnel tab for a 39 MTI if anyone is looking for one.
Chris (513) 706-3199.