Do they have many benefits!
There are many situations where trim marks can help a boater. For example, when it slows from its maximum speed, it begins to settle astern or “squat,” creating an inefficient and sloppy condition. What about pressing the throttle and the boat moves forward, creating a transition period of out-of-plane planning? A mound of water is created, and in this elevated bow position, visibility is limited and the hull experiences increased drag. These are just two instances where tabs can help.
Uneven weight distribution is the cause of the boat leaning to one side(see why boat tilt on one-side). Wind can do the same, especially on a boat with an enclosed cockpit or flying bridge. Tabs can fix all of these issues. They range from simple fixed manual units to the new generation of advanced self-leveling electronic controls. Modern boat trim tabs can sync with your boat's drive system to take the guesswork out of tuning and set the boat to the best possible riding position.
How will Tabs Impact your Boat?
In the past, trim marks were often found on cruisers and fishing boats over 23 feet (7 m) in length, but today they are common equipment on boats up to 16 feet (5 m) in length. Trim marks are found on everything from open boats with tiller steering to bow riders, cruisers, and hardtops. Many people think that trim marks are less important on smaller boats, but in fact the opposite is true. Trim marks improve the ride even for larger planning hulls, but on a smaller boat, we may notice the difference more. For example, larger boats are much less affected by weight distribution than small boats.
A quick touch of the tab button will return the skiff to the correct longitudinal or side trim angle to provide a better ride. When trimmed properly, your boat will provide a softer, more comfortable ride. Decades later, we've seen all boats, large and small, benefit from trim tabs for the same reasons – they improve layout and, although perhaps only marginally, fuel efficiency. They also correct uneven weight distribution, improving speed, safety and overall performance.
On a performance boat that's set up for speed, trim marks help it get on board quickly without digging the stern deep into the water and shooting the bow skyward. Put the tabs aside and the boat will appear on the plane. As speed increases, change the angle of the tabs to suit the sea conditions.
Enhanced Utility
Standard tabs on the family runabout allow the boat to tow heavier or multiple paddlers and slow it down for smaller children without getting too high. Tabs also promote safety. Use them to improve vision and avoid running over something you didn't see. When towing a surfboard or surfer onto a boat without a ballast, run with the tabs firmly in and the motor set inboard. This could have a greater impact.
Larger Corvettes come standard with tabs and many have auto trim systems. On larger, heavier cruisers, tabs help with planning and handling in larger seas.
Buy Trim Tabs?
Before purchasing trim tabs, make sure you have space to mount them. Check keel design and measure clearance around swim platforms or ladders. About 12 inches (30 cm) are needed along the bottom of the boat and a foot (30 cm) vertically from the point in the center of the tongue. Anyone who is handy with a drill and screwdriver can install trim tabs. Depending on the size and build of the boat, it should take a few hours.
You can check the trim tabs at CKW Store at the affordable prices.
Determine the Size of the Trim Tab
Installing undersized trim tabs is a common mistake. A very small tab will need to be deflected more in order to create sufficient lift. Just remember, the larger the trim bar, the more lift it produces with minimal drag. Most manufacturers provide a size guide to make your selection a lot easier. There are many factors that influence the selection of appropriately sized cut marks.
Our recommendations are based on average performance. Factors influencing selection may vary based on power, engine configuration, weight distribution, boat type and application. The greater the surface area, deflection angle and/or water flow velocity under the cutting tongue, the greater the lift. When choosing between trim tab sizes, remember that the largest tabs that can comfortably fit on the crossbar will be the most efficient.
To learn more about trim tabs, check our guides for more information about fishing below:
Spread It Out: A Guide to Adding Outriggers to Your Boat
Outrigger Guide for Beginner’s: Two Great Options from TACO MARINE
What is Autopilot and how it Works?