Smart Tabs

  • Thread starter Thread starter blouderback
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blouderback

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Hi folks,

I'm thinking of adding Smart Tabs to my 21' bowrider. The reson is that when I'm trimmed up (out) for speed, the bow tends to bounce a bit. I don't think I want to add "real" trim tabs, because I don't feel like running all the wiring and controls and such. I want a quick easy fix.

What does everyone think about Smart Tabs? Do they really work?

-Bob
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D2, first of all, decent tabs cost no where near $1,000. You can get a complete set for under $400. Secondly, smart tabs are esentially fixed load devices that are manually set and assume similar loading and conditions each time the boat is used. There is no electronic sensor that can modify position based on pressure level. However, conditions change. My bayliner, for example, would lean in any wind above 15 knots. No smart tab would compensate for that. In addition, I found that, through the use of a fuel flow monitor, I could improve mpg by adjusting the trim of the outdrive and the position of the tabs. On a run to the bahamas, I'd save 30% of the cost difference in fuel expense alone. Tabs down would get me up on plane in a hurry and tabs up, once on plane, would decrease drag. Plus I could adjust for various sea conditions providing the most comfortable ride possible for my passengers. Frequently, a little "bow down" would mean the difference between pounding and cutting.

To give you an idea of how professionals feel about smart tabs, to my knowledge there is not a single boat manufacturer that includes smart tabs on their boats. There are many, however, that include adjustable tabs. If they felt that smart tabs were an acceptable alternative, rest assured that they would save a few bucks and use them.
 
Bob, contrary to to Rip's post, Bennett makes a couple of tab sets, like the M80, specifically designed for boats your size. There's a lot of experienced boaters here who have advised against the smart tabs, myself included. Frankly, just the fact that not a single boat manufacturer, to the best of my knowledge, uses them is sufficient proof that they are not the best choice.
 
I would guess that they are more suited to lakes, if anywhere. My boat was only 24' with a high bow but there were times that I took green water over it. The last thing I would want at that point is anything pushing my bow down. The same when running an inlet that has kicked up. When turning in high seas, I want the roll to help me get around as quickly as possible, in between crests. Again, I don't want anything trying to level my boat. What you are probably reading is comments from very experienced boaters who want as much control over their boats as possible as opposed to those who prefer the "easy" way that is "good enough."
 
I'd buy your car analogy if you had said Ford vs. Lincoln.
 
thats even better. Smart tabs are not the equal of adjustable tabs - not by stretch of the imagination.
 
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