Safe to route transom straps this way (see pics)? Want to make room for Smart Tabs

[ajgraz]

I am thinking of SX9510-60 Smart Tabs for my 17' Sea Hunt center console:

http://nauticusinc.com/smart-tabs-sx/

(Objectives are reduced bow rise on holeshot and ability to maintain plane at lower speeds...though that's not really the point of this thread, any comments on meeting those objectives vs. the tabs in question and their proposed mounting location(s) below are certainly welcome!)

Currently my transom straps are routed "traditionally" like this, which would force me to locate the outer edge of the tab 6" to 7" from the chine, and straddling a strake...although the inner edge of the tab is still around 20-21" from keel, and 7-8" from the nearest transducer:


If I can route my straps so that they wrap around the outer corner of the transom (rather than tuck under the bottom), then I can place the tabs at the manufacturer-recommended, optimal 3" to 4" from the chine, and straddling no strakes:



There are sturdy attachment eyes on both inside and outside of the trailer frame tube, and neither routing rubs any part of the strap on any metal.

So, am I safe to route the straps in the proposed way?

(EDIT: This roller trailer has no rear-most crossbar, as my other boat's bunk trailer has, so moving the transom eyes and straps inboard doesn't seem doable as there'd be nothing at the bottom to attach the strap to that would not also interfere with the location of the tabs)

 

[muskyfins]

on a boat that size, I wouldn't see a problem with it. On a long haul, I might add one over the top from side to side.

 

[H20Rat]

Looks good, but... Tow straps directly on fiberglass will wear away at the gel coat until you have raw fiberglass exposed. If you are towing long distances I'd throw a cloth rag in between any contact points.

 

[fishrdan]

As long as it's not rubbing on anything sharp, not an issue safety wise. I had to route one of mine something similar to avoid a transducer, haven't seen any paint wear - yet.....

 

[dingbat]

Get rid of the transom straps and use a gunwale strap.

I've snapped two transom straps in the exact locations your proposing. The edge of the transom cut them like a knife.

First time, I clipped a curb pulling out of a service station. Went off like a gun. Flew across 2 lanes of traffic. Landed in the middle of the intersection.

Second time, I don't know what happened. Parked in the barn and went back to lower the drive. Half a strap hanging on the transom. Gunwale strap ever since

 

[JASinIL2006]

SmartTabs should help with both holeshot and planing at lower speeds.

I'd be worried the straps would wear on the gelcoat if you are trailering for long distances. For short trips I wouldn't worry abiut it