Trim tab - is it needed?

[watchinthebobber]

I just noticed the trim tab is completely missing from my outdrive. I know it acts as a sacrificial anode. Was this something that maybe was not installed from the factory or do all outdrives have trim tabs? I only plan on using this boat in freshwater, do I need to replace the trim tab?

Thanks

 

[watchinthebobber]

Re: Trim tab - is it needed?

I also have power steering and the book says no adjustment is needed on the trim tab for power steering models.

 

[watchinthebobber]

Re: Trim tab - is it needed?

I just checked the parts diagrams and it shows I would use a trim plate rather than a tab. The tab is only for drive ratios of 1.98. Mine is 1.86. Guess I still should have the plate though right?

 

[Fishermark]

Re: Trim tab - is it needed?

You need something there - either a tab or plate.

 

[APPALOOSA2]

Re: Trim tab - is it needed?

Yes I would put one on. If you have any stainless steel it will start a corrosion issue without it. I have power steering also but with out the tab adjusted properly it will pull.

 

[Don S]

Re: Trim tab - is it needed?

Since you have power steering, the tab is not needed, but the plate is still the sacrificial anode. If it was missing, it either fell off, or it corroded away (instead of the drive). Install a new one, and replace it when corroded away at 50%.

 

[watchinthebobber]

Re: Trim tab - is it needed?

Thanks guys! Will be picking one up soon.