Real test of my 26
 

Hi Guys,

So far so good stepping down to the 26. Have to say one of the most - the most - solid boat I have owned. Better tab and horsepower would really do it.

We entered the Miami-Key West Poker run which is 165 miles each way. The last leg is 38 miles on the outside, some say no problem, others say they couldn't be paid enough. I grew up boating the Atlantic Jersey Shore and NY Harbor so I'm someplace in the middle regarding rough water.

I was a bit conflicted buying a smaller boat so this will be the ultimate test. Guys with the bigger boats here might be somewhat disinterested but the others with the 26 have a lot to say. We'll see... It will be a party in any event with the SBI Worlds the same weekend.

Re: Real test of my 26
 

Which tabs do you have on the boat? 12x12 Bennetts?

www.bennetttrimtabs.com
Talk to MJ Thomas... one of the nicest guys in the marine business.

He can help you get the 12x16 tabs. I had the 12x12 and went to the 12x16, which is a simple plate swap, everything else is the same. It was definately a noticeable difference in handling for the better, both flat and choppy waters.

Re: Real test of my 26
 

Thanx for the info.

I tried to contact Martiniboat but did not know he had passed away; he made aftermarket. I have the 12x12 I with the dual rams and they basically suck. I have not decided if I wanted to retro the whole rig since I generally hold onto a boat about 3 or so years.

Re: Real test of my 26
 

Called Bennet and they list $138.00 each, just need to find a supplier and I'm all set.

Thanx

Re: Real test of my 26
 

Shooter...love the 26. What is your power/drive setup, and speed? What you think about the cockpit size?

Re: Real test of my 26
 

West Marine should be able to special order them for you. If not, I have dealt with Bennett directly in the past, although they may shy away from such now.

Re: Real test of my 26
 

I have a 496 MagHO in it running a lab finished 24 Bravo. It tops out at 65mph. I'd like to brag, but that's it. However, I'm pretty fearless in it so far when it comes to chop or wake. We'll see after the Key West run. I have hydraulic steering to the help an that, along with the smartcraft gauges made me decide to buy this vs. one with an HP500 in it but no steering. 8000 cheaper helped also.

I just got back from it today adding a chartplotter (it's shallow in Tampa!) and DSC VHF. The other day I removed those "turbulator" rings from the exhaust and sent the elbows out to be stripped and polished. I also bought a stainless cover and removed the stock. Hell, if it ain't fast it might as well look that way at the dock...

Bennett does not sell direct - I called Too Old at Trick and he'll get the tabs for me.

Re: Real test of my 26
 

Shooter, Nice boat. I sure like it. Heres my 260.
Timmy Farmer.Ky

Re: Real test of my 26
 

I had the "Sonic" lettering on mine above the rub rail. I removed it, and it really cleaned up the side of the boat... just a tip.