Thread subject: Whaler Central - Boston Whaler Boat Information and Photos :: Dauntless Trim Tabs
Posted by FASTFJR on 04/15/09 - 7:32 AM
#1
I just purchased a 2007 Dauntless 180 leftover. I'm looking for other owners who have installed trim tabs on their boat. What size? What kind?
Thanks
Posted by dauntless-n-miami on 04/15/09 - 8:30 AM
#2
FASTFJR, what do you need to know about Trim tabs? I have a Dauntless 15 with Bennett tabs 9"x12".B)
Posted by jrjbooger3 on 04/16/09 - 6:06 AM
#4
I have the smart tabs on my dauntless 15 they work good, improved ride
Posted by FASTFJR on 04/16/09 - 6:35 AM
#5
Thanks guys
The one thing I do not like about smart tabs is that they are always down. This would cause a problem for me because the boat is in rack storage. I also want to be able to control the tabs myself from the console.
I would like to install Bennett's are Lenco's not sure which one to go with. I like the Lenco's because of the lack of parts, no fluid or pump to break down. I like the Bennett because of their ATC system which is like an auto pilot for trim tabs.
Posted by dauntless-n-miami on 04/16/09 - 8:09 AM
#6
Hi FASTFJR besides the option you mention with the Bennett Tabs, with hydraulic systems you will have a bit more range of adjustment levels and speed in travel. The lenco's travel is controlled by the electric motor and gear. At times you may not be able to fine tune the hulls trim attitude because of this drive engagement, unlike a hydraulic piston. A plus with a hydraulic system should you encounter pump/ram failure with the tabs in a down position, by disconnecting the feed hose you can override the position of the tab by bleeding the rams pressure unless the tab was damaged by a collision. Later model outboards incorporate a bleed screw for the same reason, should the trim units motor get stuck in full trim mode. The Lencos' Ram is not designed to be "serviced in the field" unless your willing to damage the sealed motor housing to override the gear drive. Just thought I would share this info with you...;)
Angel
Posted by FASTFJR on 04/16/09 - 9:32 AM
#7
dauntless-n-miami wrote:
Hi FASTFJR besides the option you mention with the Bennett Tabs, with hydraulic systems you will have a bit more range of adjustment levels and speed in travel. The lenco's travel is controlled by the electric motor and gear. At times you may not be able to fine tune the hulls trim attitude because of this drive engagement, unlike a hydraulic piston. A plus with a hydraulic system should you encounter pump/ram failure with the tabs in a down position, by disconnecting the feed hose you can override the position of the tab by bleeding the rams pressure unless the tab was damaged by a collision. Later model outboards incorporate a bleed screw for the same reason, should the trim units motor get stuck in full trim mode. The Lencos' Ram is not designed to be "serviced in the field" unless your willing to damage the sealed motor housing to override the gear drive. Just thought I would share this info with you...;)
Angel
Very good point about the Lenco's I did not know that. I think I'll be going with the Bennets
Posted by dauntless-n-miami on 04/16/09 - 9:41 AM
#8
Your welcome and it was my pleasure. Good luck with the purchase and attention with the install...:D
Angel
Posted by dauntless-n-miami on 04/16/09 - 10:00 AM
#9
FASTFJR, keep in mind that boats of shorter length and narrow beam (typically less than 22 feet and 7 foot widths) are very sensitive to trim inputs, be it motor trim or stabilizer tabs. Always make your adjustments in very small increments and allow ample time to see or feel the change. My Dauntless 15 may ride and feel like a bit larger boat but, trimming and tab adjustments quickly remind me its still a 15 footer especially in a 2 foot chop, which the boat will handle incrediblely solid and dry. Even in a cross wind, you just "gotta love a Whaler"...:D. Well thats it from me, lets us know what you decided and if possible post some pic's of the install...see ya
Angel