Smart Tab Help Pls

[Gmarkos319]

Hey, I just bought a RIB (Rigid Inflatable Boat)... I know not the i-boat peoples type of boat but I must say it is very nice and I hit 48 mph breaking it in 3 more hours of break in. <br /><br />But my questions are: <br />1) When im going close to full throttle the boat chine walks like crazy, Would smart tabs stop this for sure? <br /> <br />2) Would it be safer to have the boat manufacturer install the smart tabs or are they easy enough for a person with no boating repair or installing experience to do it? (I think i would have to move a depthsounder transducer) <br /><br />3) Would the trim tabs effect the turning of the boat? (Right now the boat turns amazingly below 35mph, It carves wonderfully. Would the smart tabs stop this?) <br /><br />Thanks

 

[studlymandingo]

Re: Smart Tab Help Pls

1) The smart tabs would significantly reduce Chinewalking.<br />2) They are very easy to install if you follow the instructions provided.<br />3) The Smart Tabs should improve the handling of the boat, no detriment.

 

[LubeDude]

Re: Smart Tab Help Pls

Smart tabs are great, I have them, but you might try and raise your engine an inch at a time to help with the chinewalk!

 

[Jdeagro]

Re: Smart Tab Help Pls

Hi Lubedude;<br /><br />The Ribs are very prone to chine walking at higher speeds because they are very light and rise up onto the V. Once there the tube catch air (large surface) and they begin to "float". We are OEM on one of the best brands (Novurania out of Florida) and I can assure you they have tried everything. Ribs are a different breed.

 

[Gmarkos319]

Re: Smart Tab Help Pls

Hey John, since you probably know more than anyone about these smart tabs, the only reason I am kind of reluctant to buy them is because i think they will restrict the turning. As you may know the tubes on a Rib enable it to turn soo good. Would the tabs somehow stop this turning by being not letting the boat get that angle on the water? <br /><br />Also whats the deal with tabs in salt water? do i have to buy anything extra to put on them for them to not corrode? <br /><br />Thanks

 

[Jdeagro]

Re: Smart Tab Help Pls

Seaswirlstriper;<br /><br />The tabs operate independently of each other, therfore in turns they improve stability and allow the boat to track even better. We tested a 16' Novurania with a 80 HP merc. Got the boat up to 39 MPH and did a tight 180 with no throttle reduction. The boat exited the turn at 36 MPH. Darn near lost on passenger though.<br /><br />Regarding zincs - anytime you put metal into salt water you need to install zincs.

 

[Gmarkos319]

Re: Smart Tab Help Pls

haha aright, and do the zincs come with the tabs or no? <br /><br /> Also real quick i have a 19'2 ft boat with a 115 honda on the back (500lbs) Do i use the ST1290-60? Thanks

 

[studlymandingo]

Re: Smart Tab Help Pls

The tabs do not come with zinc anodes, but you can use the round ones available here on iboats or at any boat supply store.

 

[Gmarkos319]

Re: Smart Tab Help Pls

Sounds good, if you have a chance could u possibly link the anodes from Iboats that i could use? i searched for them but like 20 pages came up heh

 

[Gmarkos319]

Re: Smart Tab Help Pls

http://www.iboats.com/mall/index.cg...=650115894&list_time=1149291638&view_id=39250 <br /><br /><br />like that?

 

[Jdeagro]

Re: Smart Tab Help Pls

The zincs are called rutter / trim plate zincs & the size you want is about 2 5/8" round.

 

[sloopy]

Re: Smart Tab Help Pls

These would work, but the type john is revering to I believe are these

 

[Gmarkos319]

Re: Smart Tab Help Pls

aright and...<br />i have a 19'2 ft boat with a 115 honda on the back (500lbs) Do i use the ST1290-60? <br /><br />Thanks for everything im gonna talk to my manufacturer then buy em

 

[stevens]

Re: Smart Tab Help Pls

The 1290-60's sound about right, I think. And, yes, any 10-thumb DIY'er can install these himself. Just follow the instructions to the letter. Good luck!<br /><br />Here's a suitable zinc anode fitted to the tabs (one stainless screw right through).<br />

 

[Gmarkos319]

Re: Smart Tab Help Pls

Sounds goood, thanks for all the help guys!