Q4 Smart Tab Install - Help

[dwyork@hotmail.com]

I just purchased some Nauticus Smart Tabs SX w/ 60# actuators. I understand the install process, but I've read several posts about installing in different areas of the transom on Tahoes. I have a 2009 Q4 SS w/ 3.0L 135 HP Mercruiser...has anyone installed smart tabs on the same model?

 

[down2grnd]

Re: Q4 Smart Tab Install - Help

Like to see some more installs also. I have a 2005 Q4L with the 4.3 MPI. Seen the installs close to the center, but also have seen the Q6 installs further out with an adapter provide by Nautilus since mounting point is not on the same surface going this route. Ready to buy them but want to see possibility of mounting further out.

 

[Mordekai]

Re: Q4 Smart Tab Install - Help

Do not install them in near the center like I did originally. They won't be as effective as out to the side. I'll post updated pics later when I'm home.

 

[dwyork@hotmail.com]

Re: Q4 Smart Tab Install - Help

Do not install them in near the center like I did originally. They won't be as effective as out to the side. I'll post updated pics later when I'm home.

Thanks Mordekai, I held the trim tab and actuators in place as a dry fit towards the outside of the transom and it seems like they would fit fine, but I'm too worried about installing them there without knowing if I need a special kit for my model or not.

 

[Mordekai]

Re: Q4 Smart Tab Install - Help

Here you go on my 2010 q4, which should be the same as yours.

ORIGINALLY, it was HERE, but that's wrong, mount it out the side where you will get the most benefit.

 

[dwyork@hotmail.com]

Re: Q4 Smart Tab Install - Help

Mordekai - Did you have to use any special conversions or shims to bolt them out to the sides? And have you had the boat out since you moved the tabs...if so, how'd it handle?

 

[Mordekai]

Re: Q4 Smart Tab Install - Help

Nope,
I just use the standard hardware that came with the kit.

It handles like it's on rail, turns on a dime, doesn't porpoise at cruising speed,
I used to have to slow down when the lake is choppy, now I'm able to maintain 30mph cruise.

Also, wakes hitting from the side isn't as big of a deal now since the tab helps with the balance also.

If you really want more info before drilling let me know.

 

[dwyork@hotmail.com]

Re: Q4 Smart Tab Install - Help

I definitely feel more comfortable now...thanks for all your help!

P.S.
What hole worked best for you?

 

[Mordekai]

Re: Q4 Smart Tab Install - Help

After taking out wrenches and adjusting on the fly with me.
I find that 3 worked best for me.

Though you might want to play with yours to get it just right.

I have extra weight on mine in the rear, on the port side I have an extra battery and on the starboard I store my deflated tube.

 

[dwyork@hotmail.com]

Re: Q4 Smart Tab Install - Help

That should give me a great start...I can't wait to install these bad boys tomorrow. Thanks again for all the info!

 

[colossus0706]

Re: Q4 Smart Tab Install - Help

Mordekai,

I've got a 2007 Q4 and I recently installed my smart tabs a little close together like your original setup. My transom is concave where the 3.0 is and then both sides bulge out... not sure if your transom is the same or not.

If so, could you post more clear pictures of the new install?

Also, what did you use to fill the holes that you made with the original install?

 

[dwyork@hotmail.com]

Re: Q4 Smart Tab Install - Help

I started my measurements and ran into what I would consider a "big problem"! My port side is shorter in width than my starboard side (by one inch)...is this normal? It really threw of my measurements, lol. I was going to line up the tabs with the chine, but that is where the inch difference seems to be lost...please help.

 

[Mordekai]

Re: Q4 Smart Tab Install - Help

Mordekai,

I've got a 2007 Q4 and I recently installed my smart tabs a little close together like your original setup. My transom is concave where the 3.0 is and then both sides bulge out... not sure if your transom is the same or not.

If so, could you post more clear pictures of the new install?

Also, what did you use to fill the holes that you made with the original install?

My transom where I have it right now is slightly concave also but that isnt a problem.
I used some SS screws of the same size and filled up the holes with 3m 5200 before I put the screws back in.

I'm going out in the lake today so I'll take a closer pic.

 

[Mordekai]

Re: Q4 Smart Tab Install - Help

I started my measurements and ran into what I would consider a "big problem"! My port side is shorter in width than my starboard side (by one inch)...is this normal? It really threw of my measurements, lol. I was going to line up the tabs with the chine, but that is where the inch difference seems to be lost...please help.

Wanna take a few pics and show us what you're talking about? both side should be the same.

Don't forget to use masking tape before you drill.

 

[dwyork@hotmail.com]

Re: Q4 Smart Tab Install - Help

Yes...I will for sure. The chine on the port side measures 1" less in width than the chine on the starboard side. I've included a link to the pics so hopefully this will help explain the issue.

http://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/LkQV_d35PpAMYzH3jYJmbw?feat=directlink

 

[dwyork@hotmail.com]

Re: Q4 Smart Tab Install - Help

I called and spoke with the BPS service manager and he said that he was unaware that any of the chines differ in size or width, but that it has to be correct since they are all made from the same molds. Not sure how this will affect the trim tabs since one will be centered over the chine and the other will be off-centered over the port chine. Has anyone ran into this situation before?

 

[Mordekai]

Re: Q4 Smart Tab Install - Help

Here is mine.

What I would suggest in your case is to move both side in or out around that region until the top bracket on both side clear the chine or the bump in the hull.

 

[dwyork@hotmail.com]

Re: Q4 Smart Tab Install - Help

I'll have to put them over the chines...same spot that you did and hope for the best.

 

[dwyork@hotmail.com]

Re: Q4 Smart Tab Install - Help

I spoke with a manager down in Springfield at the Tahoe facility and he said that he's not sure if the chines are supposed to be different sizes or not, but that they are all molded from the Q4 forms so it should be fine.

Since no one from Tahoe seems to know anything about their designs, can someone please measure the chines on their Q4 to see if they come out with different widths as well? Thanks fellas!

 

[dwyork@hotmail.com]

Re: Q4 Smart Tab Install - Help

Here is mine.

What I would suggest in your case is to move both side in or out around that region until the top bracket on both side clear the chine or the bump in the hull.

I installed them in almost the exact spot as yours...heading to the lake tomorrow, hope it plays well. Thanks for all your help man!