Do self leveling trim tabs work with step hulls?
07-29-2019 | 02:01 PM
#2
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From: KY
Maybe someone can add/correct info, but tabs don't care what boat there on. They have a gyro inside which once set is designed to keep the hull at that attitude/angle. I installed Bennett auto tabs and had a whole lot of issues getting them to work correctly. They worked great in manual mode, but sometimes when turned to auto they would put the nose in the water.
Didn't give any warning either, both tabs just started going down and at speed that got a bit squirrely. They are working now, but every once in a while they will still mess up, but only when taking off
Didn't give any warning either, both tabs just started going down and at speed that got a bit squirrely. They are working now, but every once in a while they will still mess up, but only when taking off
07-29-2019 | 04:57 PM
#3
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Maybe someone can add/correct info, but tabs don't care what boat there on. They have a gyro inside which once set is designed to keep the hull at that attitude/angle. I installed Bennett auto tabs and had a whole lot of issues getting them to work correctly. They worked great in manual mode, but sometimes when turned to auto they would put the nose in the water.
Didn't give any warning either, both tabs just started going down and at speed that got a bit squirrely. They are working now, but every once in a while they will still mess up, but only when taking off
Didn't give any warning either, both tabs just started going down and at speed that got a bit squirrely. They are working now, but every once in a while they will still mess up, but only when taking off
07-29-2019 | 05:12 PM
#4
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From: KY
I would suggest you don't need auto tabs, I think you need more motor. If you keep the drive tucked in fully all the time, then there is not enough power to lift the bow. Tabs are used to keep the boat level when running
07-29-2019 | 05:30 PM
#5
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well, this is my first step hull and I haven’t had a ton of time driving it yet. It’s suppose to get on plane quickly. I DO have to put the battery on the other side of the boat to counter act some port side listing but it also does seem to lean much more easily than the v-hulls I’m use to. Given that these self leveling tabs are so cheap in comparison, I figured it would be at least a good option to look into.
07-29-2019 | 05:41 PM
#6
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From: KY
Given that these self leveling tabs are so cheap in comparison, I figured it would be at least a good option to look into.
Think of it this way, anything in the water that creates lift will also create drag. The more drag the more power is needed to compensate. Place a tab with 10 degree down, creates lift and as the boat rolls, one side reduces drag and the other increases. If you need the drive full down now, adding tabs will only reduce your speed.
Tabs are used to level a boat, but if you want max speed and economy then tabs go all up to reduce drag.
07-29-2019 | 06:37 PM
#9
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From: KY
Guess I need to see the hull bottom. If its a true step then the hull steps up and then runs the length back to the drive and everything else. If its just a cut out which rises above the hull that is different
07-29-2019 | 07:00 PM
#10
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From: SW CT & Long Island Sound
I can't imagine relegating tab control to a computer. If you need 'em bump 'em, what's the big deal? Besides, you use trim way more than tabs. If that computer/gyro/tab goes a bit wonky then you could be in a world of hurt in certain circumstances.
But maybe I'm missing something?
But maybe I'm missing something?
