If you’re a boater, you’ve probably heard of trim tabs. However, do you know what they are and how they work? In this boat tip article, we’ll explain the basics of their use. Additionally, we will explain how they can improve your boating experience.
Trim tabs are used on a boat to adjust the angle of the boat’s hull in relation to the water. They are typically located on the transom (rear) of the boat. Trim Tabs consist of two small metal plates that can be adjusted using a control switch, button or joystick inside the boat. To use trim tabs, the boat should be running at a moderate speed and the skipper should be in the
driver’s seat.
Using trim tabs to get on the plane is relatively simple.
To correct excessive bow rise, deploy your tabs down all the way. Afterwards, bring your engine or drive to its most negative-trim position. As a result, this should flatten your takeoff angle when you punch the throttle(s) and offer improved visibility forward. Once your boat is up on the plane, adjust the tabs to reduce your hull’s wetted surface and keep level across the beam. Bring your engine(s) trim up accordingly too in order to make the prop as perpendicular to the water as possible for a level running attitude.
It’s important to adjust trim tabs gradually in small increments to keep the boat from becoming unstable. If you’re more of a visual learner we’ve additionally linked a video for you to watch.
Trim Tabs are great for many reasons!
Armed with this knowledge you should be better at the following…
- Fixing a Listing Boat
- Stay on Plane at Lower Speeds
- Get on The Plane Faster
- The Increased Lift Reduces Stress and Resistance on The Boat’s Hull
- Improves Handling and Control
You can contact us here if you have any questions. We also provide lessons if you’re looking to get out onto the water yourself.
Happy Boating From The Team @boatwisesydney
