Re: Smart Tab installation for Joe Homeowner
BRG25;<br /><br />You have some good info from others. <br /><br />First do not use the ST1290-80 as the 80 Lb. actuators will be too much for your boat. Use the ST1290-60. Not to worry because if I am wrong we will exchange the actuators at no charge. Swapping them should take about 3 minutes if needed.<br /><br />As for drilling holes, keep in mind that these holes are going to be filled with two things, a screw and sealant. <br /><br />We recommend a 3/16" drill bit which if it cuts small will make the hole to tight in fiberglass. Wood and aluminum will give, fiberglass will not. If the screw goes in to hard do not force it, simply run the drill in the hole again to open it up a bit. Or use a 7/32" bit. <br /><br />The installation is better done by the owner since you will take the time to read the directions and understand the system, where the mechanic (if they are not one of our dealers) will just want to get them on the boat and you out the door. Sorry if I have offended any dealers. <br /><br />Assemble the tabs while sitting down at the kitchen table ( make sure they wife is out shopping, and you don't scratch the table). Assemble every thing so that the only thing missing is the boat, and the mounting screws. <br /><br />Now go to the boat, position the plate with hinge attached against the boat in the location you desire (see the picture in the manual or on our web site for other similar installations - locate them as far out to each side as is practical for better stability). Mark the hole locations and now drill the hinge / plate holes.<br /><br />Use either the foam Marine Sealant strips provided to seal the holes and / or 3M 4200 or 5200 sealant. Side note, if our sealant did not work well I would not supply it. If the boat is aluminum it should always be used. <br /><br />Attach the plate. Now use the 25 degree template provided to get the correct position of the top (transom) bracket. The bracket should be attached to the actuator and the other end of the actuator should be attached to the plate bracket (remember I said assemble everything!) Mark and drill these two hole, use the sealant, and attach the bracket. Your done! Do the same on the other side, and go run the boat. <br /><br />The porpoising should be eliminated, if not increase the pressure (according to the instructions) a little and run the boat again.<br /><br />You should pick up 2 to 4 MPH in top speed when the pressure is adjusted correctly.<br /><br />NEVER USE ANY OTHER PLANING DEVICE IN ADDITION TO Smart Tabs. (i.e.: Hydrofoils)
