Big cats and tunnel tabs
 

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?

Re: Big cats and tunnel tabs
 

Ttt????

Re: Big cats and tunnel tabs
 

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 .

Re: Big cats and tunnel tabs
 

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.

Re: Big cats and tunnel tabs
 

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

Re: Big cats and tunnel tabs
 

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

Re: Big cats and tunnel tabs
 

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.

Re: Big cats and tunnel tabs
 

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

Re: Big cats and tunnel tabs
 

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