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Does anyone have experience with installing trim tabs on a classic Montauk?
Any suggestions? Bringing a little life to an old Rescue boat.

Eric
Marco Island, FL

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Adding a set of "fins" to my outboard made a dramatic improvement to my 17's performance....

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What did the fins correct? Just got my '79 montauk w/'84 evinrude 90hp a month ago and i notice she wants to list starboard when planed out and that she turns flat like a skiff at higher speeds. would fins help level her out going straight and dig in a little when turning?
thanks
JE

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danedg

What brand, size did you use?
Electric / Hydrolic?
How far from outer edge or from centerline?
Lastly, did you incur any problems or special needs on install?

FirstPawn
Eric

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jaemrich,

The tabs should help correct the listing issue, and if large enough would/should help stabilize in the turns.
I will post here after I get info for an update after my install and "someday" after the seatrial.
Nice setup you have.
Enjoy

Eric

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I wouldn't consider putting tabs on such a small boat.
Maybe a 22' or 25' ocean going Whaler...

I think you should start looking first at the height of your motor and the distribution of weight in your boat. Get the motor height set right first and then experiment with different props.

I tried a Hydra-fin (or something) on my Montauk... Took it off immediately as it reduced overall performance. Fins are the last result if nothing else works and way too many people have their Montauk setup correctly without the need for a fin... It kind of makes me scratch my head when someone, especially a mechanic, automatically recommends us to put on a fin... If engines needed fins, the engine manufacturers would put one on so they could make more money too.

Try anything and everything else first.... especially the engine height....

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Thanks Joe,

I had heard that tabs helped on small boats when trolling and helping with the roll factor. Living in SW FL. and EVERYONE loves to come over and go catching.
I can see my "new friends" getting in line when this one gets to get wet.
I have gone a bit overboard with this project, but very trick.
Hydrolic Jackplate & steering, baitwell, rod holders, outriggers, WOOD, WOOD, WOOD, interior lighting (red/white), keel guard for those special areas, over the top electronics and when all is said and done - full wrap to make it MINE!
I mean a functional fishing & Family boat.
Not to dismiss your reply, but
If you were to suggest tabs, what size, etc. etc.

Eric

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Eric,

No, I sure don't have any idea. My Montauk was stable on the turns but my engine was mounted on the low side.

It sounds like you have all of the rest of the bases covered.
With that jackplate, you can raise or lower your engine with a flip of a switch. Great for the flats and then when back into deeper water.

I remember seeing only one Montauk in the past that has had a set of tabs on it and didn't pay any attention to what size or brand.