Smart tabs????????

[captin bill]

I'm new to the whole boating thing. I recently got my first boat a 15' 1973 tri haul with a 1977 70 hp Johnson, with trailer. I've since started to restore it and the father I got into it I found that the transom was shot and there were three complete floors including carpet in between each floor My dad luckily found a boat on craigslist for free and he said it looked better than mine. I should go look at it. So I went and found it was completely solid. All it needs was the motor and trailer. Witch I already have. I've since took the tri haul apart and one of the things it had. Were these tabs on the back of the boat? After asking around, they seem to be smart tabs. And would be good to put them on. But they don't have a shock like the ones I've seen on here. They seem to be spring loaded. And very strong. My new boat is a 17' V haul. Now here's my question? With the extra two feet, will they still work and were should I install them? Any input will be greatly appreciated. Thanks

 

[oceansbreeze]

Re: Smart tabs????????

you may wanna attach a photo to give us a better idea what you are describing, perhaps of the alleged smart tabs, and the new boat....

 

[nlain]

Re: Smart tabs????????

A photo of the tabs and the transom would help a lot, Smart Tabs are operated by a gas shock, not sure about a spring, never saw that for Smart Tabs by Nauticus.

 

[captin bill]

Re: Smart tabs????????

I try'd to get some pics on when I posted. But I'm not the best with computers. So bare with me. I am going to try an get some up tomorrow. I'm not sure of the tab brand and I'm sure they are old. If you've ever seen a spring loaded hindge. That's how it seems to work. But I'll get some pics on as soon as I can figure it out. :redface:

 

[Jdeagro]

Re: Smart tabs????????

What you have is most likely Olson Trim Tabs from the 50's and 60's I think and not made any longer. They have some serious disadvantages; one, is that the spring tension can not be adjusted, two, the tension increases as the spring is compressed which is exactly oposite of what you need or want. The next thing is the instant reaction to every change in water pressure which is also not good.

 

[captin bill]

Re: Smart tabs????????

Thanks for the info. Sounds like I'd be better off leaven them off. Plus less holes in the transom. I guess once I get it on the water I'll see if I need to purchase a set of smart tabs. Thanks again. I?m going to my dads this weekend so hopefully I?ll get some pics up.

 

[gene8084]

Re: Smart tabs????????

Bill, Smarttabs are a great value, but regardless, drive your boat a bit before changing anything.​

 

[captin bill]

Re: Smart tabs????????

I' attempting to put some pics of it on here. So bare with me. :redface:

I hope this works. Sweet it did now I just have to figure out how to make them a little bigger.

 

[heathk2003]

Re: Smart tabs????????

Yeah i just put on smart tabs sx on my boat and they are awesome. Better ride / reduced porpoising, quicker plane time/ lower plane speed / better handling and a slight bump in top end. Best $120 i ever spent.