Adding Tabs 410EC

I have added larger tabs with drop fins and I am still having trouble getting my bow down to a reasonable angle. With my dinghy on (700lbs) and full of fuel etc I think the next step is adding a set of tabs. I think I have read every tab thread on here at this point. Need an opinion on location of the correct location. I'm not sure if I should add them above the prop pockets or on the bottom portion inside of the pockets (see pic for two location options). Also, I plan on tying them into the existing trim pump so they adjust with the current set of tabs. I believe this can be done? Thoughts?

I have added an additional set of tabs (with drop fins) on my 390EC and it is one of the best upgrades that I have done. However, the center portion (between the tunnels) on the 390 hull is wider than what yours looks like. My opinion, is that a fixed center tab might be a better idea in your situation. If you can get two 12"x12" in that area, then you could certainly try them and probably gain some attitude correction. However, in the 390EC thread, there is a build thread about making an aluminum fixed tab. Many have used this and have had great success with it. That might be an option to look at given the smaller amount of real estate you have available. Just an idea....

gdavis67 said:

I have added an additional set of tabs (with drop fins) on my 390EC and it is one of the best upgrades that I have done. However, the center portion (between the tunnels) on the 390 hull is wider than what yours looks like. My opinion, is that a fixed center tab might be a better idea in your situation. If you can get two 12"x12" in that area, then you could certainly try them and probably gain some attitude correction. However, in the 390EC thread, there is a build thread about making an aluminum fixed tab. Many have used this and have had great success with it. That might be an option to look at given the smaller amount of real estate you have available. Just an idea....

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Thanks for the reply. What improvements did you see? Was your bow down during planing? Was cruising speed improved? Also, why a fixed tab vs adjustable?

I saw immediate results in quicker planing and lower planing speeds. Prior to adding the tabs, the boat would run stern down, just plowing water, for a long time until I could reach almost cruising speed. At that point it would finally get on plane. Any slower speed and it would again fall off plane. Now, the boat literally jumps right up on plane (at least as quickly as a gas motored 40 footer can). I can back the throttles off to the speed that it planes out at immediately and it will stay on plane. My GPS has been having intermittent issues this season, so I can't give you exact numbers, but I can tell you that it is "seat of the pants" different. My wife has even noticed.

The only reason I "suggested" the fixed tab is that it is another option to look at. You have a much smaller amount of stern hull space than I do because your tunnels seem closer together and the cylinders for your swim platform take up some room. The ability to adjust the center "tabs" is really unnecessary, it just needs the kick to get it on plane. From there, the outboard tabs can take over to adjust ride. Again, this is just an option if you find you do not have room for minimum 12"x12" tabs there.

Either way, you will appreciate this upgrade immediately. Good luck!

With a narrower area to install the center tabs I would fabricate two fixed tabs at a slight downward angle. I would opt for a longer cord such as 15-16 inches with the down angles on the outboard edges. They can be fabricated out of stainless or aluminum. Mine are about 12" wide X 16" long and attached at a 5 degree down angle. The difference is dramatic.

Well the boat is now out of the water so I was able to get some measurements. I have 13" of space to add a tab. I'm thinking the 12x12 Bennett. I'm concerned about placing them right over the prop pockets. Will the water be too disturbed goiing across the tabs? Can they be plumbed into the existing trim pump?

I would place them right over the pockets, and simply tee them into the hydraulic tubes running to the outboard actuators.

Tom McGow
Bennett Marine

Tabman said:

I would place them right over the pockets, and simply tee them into the hydraulic tubes running to the outboard actuators.

Tom McGow
Bennett Marine

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Thanks Tom. Are the 12x12 units what you recommend? Should they have fins like my other tabs?

Here is another option if your anchor is mostly line. Go all chain. 200 to 250ft. That will get your bow down a few more inches with less trim.

Bop said:

Thanks Tom. Are the 12x12 units what you recommend? Should they have fins like my other tabs?

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12x12 would be good. I'd go with the the standard ones without the drop fins on these ones due to there location over the pockets.

Tom
Bennett Marine

LG111 said:

Here is another option if your anchor is mostly line. Go all chain. 200 to 250ft. That will get your bow down a few more inches with less trim.

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I'm currently 200 feet of chain. I'm looking to get my stern up as much as bow down if that make sense.

Great to see you still posting here.

A few years ago your really helped me.

Thanks Tom,