Trim Tabs to SLOW my troll???

[Boilermaker]

Hi>>>I have a 18ft deep vee runabout with a 115HP. I would like to slow my trolling speed from idle, and have been thinking of getting trim tabs (bennett sport tabs). Will deploying the tabs all the way down create enough drag to slow the boat a knot or two??? Also>>are these the tabs for a boat that will be trailered???<br />Thanks

 

[rickdb1boat]

Re: Trim Tabs to SLOW my troll???

I don't know if the tabs are the answer, but you might try this:<br /><br /><br /> web page

 

[Bass Runner]

Re: Trim Tabs to SLOW my troll???

The tabs will work for a trailered boat but you might have to move your tie downs, as far as the troll i don't think it will slow you down.

 

[roscoe]

Re: Trim Tabs to SLOW my troll???

How about using a drift sock?<br /><br /> http://www.iboats.com/mall/index.cgi?prod_id=38862&current_category=drift sock&cart_id=768333104 <br /><br />They work great in open water, not so good in a shallow stump field.<br /><br />You can drag them behind the boat.<br />Or, as some of the pros do, you can attach a strap from one side of the boat to the other under the boat, near the bow, and drag the sock beneath the boat. This way, it is out of the way for fighting fish, and makes boat turning easier.<br />I have seen them as large as 55" in diameter.<br /><br />Simple to use, no installation.

 

[Boilermaker]

Re: Trim Tabs to SLOW my troll???

Thanks for the answers. As for the trollbrake>>I thought about that>>>but really didn't like the look of it when the boat is on the trailer>>>I think it gets in the way. My kids and wife have to walk past the back of the boat to get in the yard(I keep it in the driveway).<br />I wanted to get trim tabs anyway to help with the holeshot & to even the keel(boat lists) when I'm by myself or with my young son. I was just hoping to solve 2 problems. And as far as the tiedown, no problem>>I strap across the gunnels from side to side.<br />Now its which tabs to get>>Bennet, or Lennco???<br />I would get the SmartTabs, but I don't think they will do everything I need.<br />Thanks again

 

[Jdeagro]

Re: Trim Tabs to SLOW my troll???

Boilermaker;<br /><br />As for slowing the boat, it would be marginal at best. Sorry!<br /><br />One benefit that you would get is that with the tabs deployed the boat will track better - reduce or eliminate the low speed wander.<br /><br />What else are you wanting from tabs?

 

[kd6nem]

Re: Trim Tabs to SLOW my troll???

I have to walk behind my boat with a trolling brake. It is no problem at all so long as you leave it down when out of the water. Leave it up once and you may never forget again! It does slow you down very well. A big motor can bend these up pretty well if you forget to release it before pouring on the coal to the motor. When up I don't notice it affecting performance at all.

 

[Bondo]

Re: Trim Tabs to SLOW my troll???

I've got Bennetts on My Fishing Barge..........<br />Yesterday, <br />Tabs Up, 2.2mph trolling.....<br />Tabs Down....... 1.3mph......<br />But,<br />Their Huge....... 12" X 18".......<br />The next size larger wouldn't Fit on the transom....<br /><br />You Won't get this much effect with the Sport Tabs..........<br /><br />I used to use the Drift Socks, like Roscoe says.....<br />I still carry them,+ use them on occasion......<br />Even got an Extra set of cleats for them to hang on the side of the boat..............<br />

Now its which tabs to get>>Bennet, or Lennco???

IF, by chance, nautiJohn Can't build a set that meets your every need,<br />Bennetts is the Only other answer..............

 

[Boatist]

Re: Trim Tabs to SLOW my troll???

Boiler<br />I have bennett tabs on my boat, size 24" wide by 12" chord per side. Yes the tabs will slow it down trolling but only a very small amount, 1/2 MPH maybe. I installed them in 1981 and have been very happy how they have improved the ride and safety.

 

[Boilermaker]

Re: Trim Tabs to SLOW my troll???

NautiJohn>>>besides being able to adjust for varing loads and correcting a starbord side list from my heft compaired to a very lean 10 year old son>>>I also want to use them to adjust bow hight according to water conditions. I use the boat on the south shore of LongIsland>>>Mostly bay & inlet>>>but I do venture into the ocean when the water conditions permit. I was thinking they would be better then engine trim at keeping the bow down at lower/subplaning speeds, derpendent on the conditions.<br />Thanks

 

[Jdeagro]

Re: Trim Tabs to SLOW my troll???

Boilermaker;<br /><br />Let's make sure we are talking the same language. You can adjust Smart Tabs (upon installation or after) to suite the individual boat. You can compensate for a list to either side if necessary. This adjustment is not done while running the boat from the helm as Smart Tabs are self adjsuting. In essence you can preload one side or the other with more lift to make the boat run "true". From that point on they are automatic. <br /><br />If the load shift in the boat is significant, say uncle Bubba at (350 Lbs.) moves from one side to the other, Smart Tabs will help the list but not as much as you can get with helm controlled Tabs where you can run one tab completely deployed and the other all the way up. <br /><br />You can certainly compensate (adjsut) to the difference between you and your son, although it may not be necessary. <br /><br />The bow possition will be adjustable via the trim as you are doing now. As for keeping the bow down with the motor trim vs. the Smart Tabs you will no longer be dependant upon the trim to keep the bow down at slow speeds. The attitude of the boat will be controlled by thress things, the Smart Tabs primarily, the motor trim second, and the speed of the boat. For example, if in rough seas, you can slow the boat down to 15 MPH, and stay on plane. You will continue to use the motor trim if necessary for further adjsutments.<br /><br />At below 15 MPH (plane) the bow possition will be down to a point that you should be able to sit and see over the wheel (ie: 10 MPH). <br /><br />The biggest advantage that Smart Tabs bring to the party is not quicker planing which they do, but the ride, handling, and control once on plane. Keep in mind that they are always active.

 

[Boilermaker]

Re: Trim Tabs to SLOW my troll???

Thanks John.<br />I am always running with differant loads>>>some times by my self>I'm in the Uncle Bubba class ;-)<br />Sometimes with one or 2 of my young sons> sometimes with the Mrs. or the whole family>>and sometimes out fishin' with my buddys. The boat is used for ski & tube towing, fishing the back bays, inlets & ocean. <br />I like the idea of the smart tabs>>>but feel the helm adjustable tabs are what I need. <br />Thanks again!!!

 

[Jdeagro]

Re: Trim Tabs to SLOW my troll???

I try to be as accurate as possible in how the Smart Tabs work, then it is up to you to make your choice. Most people think that the claims are exagerated, until they use them. It sounds as though your loads will change significantly from port to starboard, and that there is very little consistancy. You may be better off with helm controlled (ie: Bennett) trim tabs. Although, it still seems over kill for an 18' boat. But you know what you are looking for better than anyone else.