Trim tab size for an overnighter???

[timo14]

I'm looking to get a set of tabs. From the Bennett site, it looks like i want either 18x9's or M120's (10"x12"). Boat's an 86 204c with a Johnson 225 2-stroke. Hull is pre-Seav2. I'm assuming that I'll have to move or cut my swim platform for the actuator either way. Anybody have a review of either size tabs on this this boat or something similar?

Tim

 

[seasick]

I would probably opt for the 10 x 12s over the 9 x 18s. I think there is a M120s or sport model available. The actuator for that model needs less transom height. I am not sure about the position of your swim platform but the short model may clear it. There are installation drawings available on the Bennett Marine web site.

 

[catch22]

http://www.greatgrady.com/forum/viewtopic.php?t=8604

 

[plymouthgrady]

M-120's on 228 Seafarer. Nice.

 

[timo14]

Thanks guys.

Catch... Did a search... didn't even think about searching for the 209. Thanks for the link. Very helpful. Probably going to use your vendor too... his price is right.

I think I'm going to go with the M-120's. The 18's seem huge, and the 120's just look cooler. My only real concern is the performance. I've got quite a bit of weight hanging off the transom, which is the main reason I want the tabs. Looking to cruise at lower speeds. Do you guys think they'll be ok for me?

Thanks

 

[plymouthgrady]

I have a 228 w/ 250 SWS II on a bracket and a fresh water wash down-lots of weight aft. I actually switched from the 9x12's to the M-120's with no drops/ changes in performance. They work great w/ almost instant response.

 

[JUST-IN-TIME]

the bigger the better!

 

[Seahunter]

I had the same boat you have. I had the standard 12" x 12" tabs on it and they performed well.

 

[timo14]

Could any of you tell me what the mounting height of the actuator is above the actual tab. I dont have a whole lot of room, so i think that I might only have room for the 9x18's under the swim platform. Here's what i'm looking for...

And here's a pic of my transom

 

[Seahunter]

Tough to get an exact measurement but call it 14.5" for the standard actuator

 

[timo14]

Thanks Seahunter. Looks like I'm going to have to cut into my swim platform with either size tab... but the 9x18's would be less obtrusive.

Thanks again,
Tim

 

[catch22]

If it were me, I would replace that swim platform with a newer, plastic/poly style. There should be models with a lower, shallower profile.
I had to raise one on a friends 22 Seafarer about 2 inch's to install Bennett tabs. Sealed the holes with Lifeseal and finished it off with Marinetex... worked out fine.

Also;

http://www.bennetttrimtabs.com/faq1.htm

Check out number 6.

Bennett does offer a shorter actuator, (2 inch's shorter). Not sure if that's what's used on the sport tabs, (M80's, M120's). I would contact Bennett and find out - http://www.bennetttrimtabs.com/help.htm
their customer service is outstanding.

I seriousely don't think you need 18" tabs. I've had the standard 9" x 12"s on a 20', 23' and 24' (Grady's)... they worked fine. The Seafarer mentioned above was also 9" X 12". The M80's would also do fine... maybe stretch it to M120"s.

 

[timo14]

Thanks Catch. I had read before that the short actuator was 2" shorter than the long one... but didn't know how long the long one was. I posted to tabman on tht. If i dont hear back from him soon, I'll call customer service. I might need to call them anyway... all the online stores i've looked at offer the M-120's with the electronic indicator control (EIC), but i haven't found this with the 9x18's. It looks like I'd have to order both separately, which would leave me with an extra switch.