Why Fitting Trim Tabs Could Improve Performance, Safety & Save You Money

Front control Bennett Trim Tabs © Marine Products Direct

Why Fitting Trim Tabs Could Improve Performance, Safety & Save You Money

Trim tabs deliver many benefits for boat owners. Firstly, they improve control, visibility and stability, especially in adverse conditions such as high winds, waves, or tidal stream. Adjusting the trim of a boat allows the helmsperson to move the boat from displacement to planing quicker reducing the time the bow is high, thus improving visibility and safety. They also allow the helmsperson to correct the impact of uneven weight distribution, changes in sea conditions, cross winds and boat speed, improving ride comfort and boat balance/stability.

In addition, trim tabs improve fuel efficiency by reducing bow rise and improving the running attitude that the boat moves through the water more efficiently, reducing drag thus saving on fuel.

Finally trim tabs improve the boat's overall performance, increasing planing speeds and top speeds, whilst improving manoeuvrability, handling and control.

Trim Tab Options

Bennett Marine supply trim tab solutions to meet all requirements and to identify the correct trim tab solution for your boat an easy selection guide is available. You need to know your boats length, cruising speed and top speed as this will determine the size and type of trim tab required. If in doubt you can complete the specification request form and return to us at sales@marine-products-direct.com.

Trim Tab Types

There are 3 main types of trim tab solution:

Self-Levelling (SLT) These trim tabs are specifically designed for smaller motorboats and users that want a simple, durable, and affordable trimming solution. They are quick and easy to install, just mount the actuators and trim tabs on the transom and enjoy the benefits. No wires or control units to fit. For boats up to 20 Feet.

BOLT Electric Electric trim tab solutions utilise cutting-edge technology, with a robust, watertight actuator, BOLT electric actuators stop and start immediately with the press of the control switch and deliver precise instantaneous control. Easy to install they require no hydraulic hoses or a pump. For boats up to 32 Feet.

Bennett BOLT Heavy Duty - photo © Marine Products Direct

Hydraulic trim tab solutions use hydraulic cylinders to raise and lower the trim plane tabs and are known for their power, precision, and durability. Used on larger boats and those that are often used in extreme conditions. For boats up to 80 Feet.

Control Switches the BOLT Electric and Hydraulic trim tab solution require a control switch and Bennett has a switch to meet every requirement: