Learning something new every time - trim tabs

F

Ferg

New member
At the end of a two week cruise on the Chesapeake, our port side tab stopped functioning. At least it was at the end!

I had it repaired at Zimmerman Marine in Southport, NC, and they were terrific, although I haven't seen the invoice yet

I had never run the tabs down while out of the water, but when I did at their shop, I was surprised at how short the throw was. For some reason I was thinking they'd go completely perpendicular, which now, makes no sense
 
I'm guessing trim tabs extend 15 to 20 degrees down from the level or neutral position.
These things are relatively easy to work on, phone tech support can usually walk you through possible fix scenarios based on the symptoms.
If you can diagnose and fix a problem on your own you'll not only save a ton of money you'll become more familiar with the systems on your boat.
Trim tabs are there to make your ride more comfortable, learn how to use them.
There are many trim tab usage and operation related threads on the forum.
 
They are Bennett trim tabs, and I know how to use them; I just didn't know how short the throw was.

As far as diagnosing and repairing myself, it's too darned hot to be out there not on the water
 
In your post South Port N.C.,bought first boat there 2008 19ft Montauk whaler,really like that area. Baldhead Island, Cape fear river,ICW, Atlantic ocean all right there. Trim tabs havnt used them much yet,plan on trying to use them more,just never got around to it. Always heading somewhere ,fishing ,beach ect, need to practice with them to get the benefits of having them.
 
We do love it here Larry. Moved here from San Francisco a few years back.

The tabs are indispensable here, that's why I needed to get them fixed pronto
 
Really enjoyed our week stay there,we plan to bring boat back and truck camper. Last time we stayed in apartments right next to boat launch in southport. Probablly going to try campground up the river about 30 minutes have to look up name,can you recommend any Campgrounds near Southport or Oak Island thanks.
 
I can't really recommend any Larry, but I don't think you'd like the one on Oak Island. Carolina Beach has a few, and so does Holden Beach.

This is the best time of the year here; humidity is mostly gone, along with the tourists. Water temperature still in the 80s, and the restaurants are still operating on summer hours.
 
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