Fin AND Trim Tabs ???? Should I not run both??

[jeepnsam]

The 18' 220 HP Sea Ray in my sig came with Fin attached to the out drive. Get's up on plane very easily so i'm happy with that. HOWEVER! the low speed zig-zag down a crowded channel has to end! LOL!!

I've learned (just like Jeeping and Chess) to anticipate my route way in advance... so I zig when I want the zag to put me right on my chosen course.

To help eliminate the low speed zig-zag, I installed the SX smart tabs. (as it seamed to help many of folks on iboats) I hit 51 mph (GPS) at 4800 rpm WOT with a 21 pitch prop with 2 adults and 15 gallons of fuel.

Now my question....is it hurting anything using the Fin and the Trim Tabs??

Doesn't feel like it...but I figured I'de poll the "experienced" before something sneaks up on me and breaks.

 

[Lyle29464]

Re: Fin AND Trim Tabs ???? Should I not run both??

About 1/2 of the boater like the "fin" and the rest do not. I am a do not when dealing with a boat that has plenty of power. I think the extra drag it causes is not worth the boat getting on a plane faster. I would make a few tests with it and then with out it. If you had 120 HP I would recomend it.

 

[5150abf]

Re: Fin AND Trim Tabs ???? Should I not run both??

You know what it does with the fin now pull it off and see what it does, if it runs better leave it off, worse stick it back on.

It won't hurt anything to run both but I don't think you need both unless the boat runs better.

 

[jeepnsam]

Re: Fin AND Trim Tabs ???? Should I not run both??

UPDATE:

Decided to update all of my Thread Posts today.

Made a run, no wake speed, cruise and WOT with both the fin
and smart tabs and there was way too much drag and really touch to steer.

Took the fin off and much much better handling with just
the Smart Tabs. (just like the package says "do not use any other planning device with the Smart Tabs") LOL!!

Sam