Trim tab questions???

[Adam927]

I have a 1990 Aquasport 222 CCP with what I think are original trim tabs that came with the boat. I have never had trim tabs before so really not sure how or when to use them. Also there is no gauge to tell what position they are in so I never really know. I know they help the boat get on plain faster but what else do they do ? And how should I use them?

[RickK]

Let's say you are cruising from point A to B and you have a fairly stiff cross wind blowing the entire trip.  The wind will make your boat lean toward the wind and the trim tabs will help level the boat back up.  Same if you have a lot of weight on one side of the boat, you can counter that with the tabs.  You use your engine for front to back trim and the tabs for side to side adjustment.
I'm sure there must be a guide on the Bennett site to explain this better than I am.

[Capt. Bob]

To get you started:
http://classicaquasport.com/smf/index.php?topic=9830.0

Then you can practice:
http://classicaquasport.com/smf/index.php?topic=251.msg1524#msg1524

The tab position indicator TPI is a handy tool for sure but many seasoned users rely on the SOP (seat of pants) indicator that is built into humans. Feeling what your boat should do is something you develop with time. Helping that is a tachometer for the engine, trim gauge for the TNT and if you choose, a fuel metering device aside from standard dash gauge.

You learn to set the tabs for planing and then adjust for hull attitude and sea conditions. The TPI will  allow you to repeat the same settings once you "get the feel". The gauges also add feedback on the correct tab position and you can actually "see" the change made with tab adjustment. This helps you get the most efficiency from your boat and if you have a fuel meter, you can then really see your fuel burn under different conditions.

Good luck.

[GoneFission]

Some video on how to use trim tabs:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=oLPWdyByy9g 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=bgywySbmt-g