260 Sundancer Thread.........Comments questions and answers

When I bought my 260 3 years ago the Bennett system was just being released. I looked at documentation and compared it to the Mente Marine. It was obvious that the Mente Marine was much better thought out and reviews I found were all complimentary.
Installation was so easy and probably took no more than 45 mins. From there the System essentially auto calibrated to my Hydraulic tab system.
Setup on the water running boat was as easy as turning on cruise control in your car. Look at some of their YouTube videos.
They are not exaggerating how easy it is to install and setup. What they advertise is exactly how it works.

I am really excited about this system.. all searches result in only praises..

A few questions:

Currently, to get on plane, I do not use the trim tabs and only the power trim. I put it all the way down and when I get on place, I raise the power trim slightly to get a smooth ride using the gph levels, RPM etc..
I only use the trim tabs for listing corrections.
Once I am off plane, everything gets reset until the next plane attempt.

1) With this Mente system, does it also use the trim tabs for getting on plane? Or do you use it primarily for listing correction after the boat gets on plane?
2) Do you notice that it allows the boat to stay on plane at slower speeds?
3) Do you use the power trim in conjunction

Thanks!
 
OK, now I understand what you're asking. NO, the sensors aren't required for operation of the ATC. YES, they would be required to show the actuator position. But the ATC does not even have position indicators, so it doesn't matter. Besides, the ATC is doing all the work for you so the only thing an indicator system would be doing for you is to let you see pretty lights blinking and moving. The whole purpose of the ATC is to NOT be looking at it or messing with tabs while you're driving.

Indicators can be installed, fyi, without an "auto" control, as well. But personally, from using boats with indicators... I found that (indicators) to be useless. There's too many variables to trimming a boat - trying to trim a boat based on indicator lights is not helpful or efficient. The best indicator is your butt.
Thanks. Now you are making me think about the whole system and whether its even worth it..:)
 
I am really excited about this system.. all searches result in only praises..

A few questions:

Currently, to get on plane, I do not use the trim tabs and only the power trim. I put it all the way down and when I get on place, I raise the power trim slightly to get a smooth ride using the gph levels, RPM etc..
I only use the trim tabs for listing corrections.
Once I am off plane, everything gets reset until the next plane attempt.

1) With this Mente system, does it also use the trim tabs for getting on plane? Or do you use it primarily for listing correction after the boat gets on plane?
2) Do you notice that it allows the boat to stay on plane at slower speeds?
3) Do you use the power trim in conjunction

Thanks!
1. To get on plane the only thing I adjust is the outdrive trim exactly as you do. Full down to start to get just to plane and then trim up a touch until it settles. The Mente does its thing and I don't even look at it. I have experimented with it and forced my 260 to be slow getting on plane and Yes the Mente will deploy the tabs to help.
2. Yes if going very slow the Mente will deploy the Tabs to help stay on plane.
On that note the system goes on standby below 7 knots. Below that speed the Mente retracts the tabs when slowing down or at wake speed and when accelerating they activate and start doing their thing above 7 knots.
When there is a cross wind or passengers moving around, my 260 is solid and I can look down at the LED's on the Mente and see it doing its thing.
3. I use the outdrive trim as you would normally. The thing I'm not doing is guessing what position my Tabs are in and having to adjusting them to keep the boat level.
 
1. To get on plane the only thing I adjust is the outdrive trim exactly as you do. Full down to start to get just to plane and then trim up a touch until it settles. The Mente does its thing and I don't even look at it. I have experimented with it and forced my 260 to be slow getting on plane and Yes the Mente will deploy the tabs to help.
2. Yes if going very slow the Mente will deploy the Tabs to help stay on plane.
On that note the system goes on standby below 7 knots. Below that speed the Mente retracts the tabs when slowing down or at wake speed and when accelerating they activate and start doing their thing above 7 knots.
When there is a cross wind or passengers moving around, my 260 is solid and I can look down at the LED's on the Mente and see it doing its thing.
3. I use the outdrive trim as you would normally. The thing I'm not doing is guessing what position my Tabs are in and having to adjusting them to keep the boat level.
One last thing.

In their website I see a few ACS versions, the RP, R, A etc... It looks like I need the RP. Is that what you have.?

Thanks
 
When I bought my 260 3 years ago the Bennett system was just being released.
FYI... Actually, the Bennett ATC system has been around for quite a long time. It did get redesigned to a "newer" look, though.

That's not to take anything away from the Mente system, though. Other than "hearing" about it, I really don't know much about and don't have any experience with it to comment.
 
Bellevue... A few things to think about - especially if you are new to trim tabs...

Whether you use the Mente or Bennett system, they pretty much function the same: controlling the attitude of your boat via adjusting the tabs. Meaning, the systems will adjust the tabs to help you get on plane faster (pitch) along with listing once on plane (roll) and a "happy bow" (see second paragraph). You're still responsible for the operation of your drive.

Also... USE those tabs more! The 260DA model you have planes very nicely and often doesn't need the tabs. But they would make a HUGE difference in getting onto plane and come in very handy if you have a bigger load on the boat. They also allow the boat to cruise at a slower speed while still staying on plane. Another benefit is in choppier water - if the bow is bouncing around, drop the tabs down and the bow will calm right down and the ride will get smoother.

Another point, if you're new to tabs... give it some more time to get used to them. You might find you don't need the auto setup once you're more comfortable with them. And, if you do get it, realize there may be times when you should NOT use them as it can be dangerous. You still need to play a very active part in the seamanship of the vessel. It won't make the boat into an auto-driving Tesla ;)
 
FYI... Actually, the Bennett ATC system has been around for quite a long time. It did get redesigned to a "newer" look, though.

That's not to take anything away from the Mente system, though. Other than "hearing" about it, I really don't know much about and don't have any experience with it to comment.
Not to be argumentative but in early January 2017 I was in contact with Sales at Bennett about the ATP pro. They were still finalizing documents and marketing and I received a first copy of the installation and operations manual for the system. I had several detailed emails with them on how the system was expected to work and a guesstimate as to when it was going to be released for sale. Up to that point their website had a coming soon teaser on it.
 
Not to be argumentative but in early January 2017 I was in contact with Sales at Bennett about the ATP pro. They were still finalizing documents and marketing and I received a first copy of the installation and operations manual for the system. I had several detailed emails with them on how the system was expected to work and a guesstimate as to when it was going to be released for sale. Up to that point their website had a coming soon teaser on it.
I was referring to the ATC. You could very well be right about the Pro version and it's inception - I have no experience using or installing the Pro version. However, from what I've known about Bennett over the last 30+ years in dealing with them and using their product, I wouldn't hesitate to use it. They've been a reliable, stand-up company for a long, long time. But again, that's not to discount the Mente product in any way.
 
Bellevue... A few things to think about - especially if you are new to trim tabs...

Whether you use the Mente or Bennett system, they pretty much function the same: controlling the attitude of your boat via adjusting the tabs. Meaning, the systems will adjust the tabs to help you get on plane faster (pitch) along with listing once on plane (roll) and a "happy bow" (see second paragraph). You're still responsible for the operation of your drive.

Also... USE those tabs more! The 260DA model you have planes very nicely and often doesn't need the tabs. But they would make a HUGE difference in getting onto plane and come in very handy if you have a bigger load on the boat. They also allow the boat to cruise at a slower speed while still staying on plane. Another benefit is in choppier water - if the bow is bouncing around, drop the tabs down and the bow will calm right down and the ride will get smoother.

Another point, if you're new to tabs... give it some more time to get used to them. You might find you don't need the auto setup once you're more comfortable with them. And, if you do get it, realize there may be times when you should NOT use them as it can be dangerous. You still need to play a very active part in the seamanship of the vessel. It won't make the boat into an auto-driving Tesla ;)
I have used trim tabs before but with the 260 it was a whole new learning experience. If I used them for getting on plane and for some reason I was a little off balance with the trim levels, the boat would either plow or list so much that I would have to lessen the throttle... etc...it was truly not fun.. as many on this forum have discovered too apparently.
At least knowing when my tabs were I thought would help but then I read so much about the Auto systems, I was interested.

Bennett vs Mente, I know they do pretty much the same except for 2 big differences.

1) Mente installation is truly a selling point. The entire control unit is in the dash control unit so installation is truly simple. With the Bennett, you would have to install the additional control unit, the dash controls and wire the entire system back to the actuators, etc.. so Bennett install is more involved.

2) Mente appears to at least give an approximate position of the tabs even without installing the sensors by calibration.. With Bennett it is either sensor attachment to get the position of the tabs or nothing.

For me easy intstallation and no wire running, and doing as little as possible always wins.. especially if the end result is similar.. Not to heavy DIY inclined.. just light..

thanks for you input. I do appreciate everyone's view and input...
 
I have used trim tabs before but with the 260 it was a whole new learning experience. If I used them for getting on plane and for some reason I was a little off balance with the trim levels, the boat would either plow or list so much that I would have to lessen the throttle... etc...it was truly not fun.. as many on this forum have discovered too apparently.
At least knowing when my tabs were I thought would help but then I read so much about the Auto systems, I was interested.

Bennett vs Mente, I know they do pretty much the same except for 2 big differences.

1) Mente installation is truly a selling point. The entire control unit is in the dash control unit so installation is truly simple. With the Bennett, you would have to install the additional control unit, the dash controls and wire the entire system back to the actuators, etc.. so Bennett install is more involved.

2) Mente appears to at least give an approximate position of the tabs even without installing the sensors by calibration.. With Bennett it is either sensor attachment to get the position of the tabs or nothing.

For me easy intstallation and no wire running, and doing as little as possible always wins.. especially if the end result is similar.. Not to heavy DIY inclined.. just light..

thanks for you input. I do appreciate everyone's view and input...
I only had to Run a ground wire from the Mente to a spare ground point near the fuses at panel below steering wheel. It was no big deal because the Mente is mounted below switch panel above Windlass control on right side. So it’s a short run with easy access.
If you want a picture of my installation let me know.
 
I have used trim tabs before but with the 260 it was a whole new learning experience. If I used them for getting on plane and for some reason I was a little off balance with the trim levels, the boat would either plow or list so much that I would have to lessen the throttle... etc...it was truly not fun.. as many on this forum have discovered too apparently.
At least knowing when my tabs were I thought would help but then I read so much about the Auto systems, I was interested.

Bennett vs Mente, I know they do pretty much the same except for 2 big differences.

1) Mente installation is truly a selling point. The entire control unit is in the dash control unit so installation is truly simple. With the Bennett, you would have to install the additional control unit, the dash controls and wire the entire system back to the actuators, etc.. so Bennett install is more involved.

2) Mente appears to at least give an approximate position of the tabs even without installing the sensors by calibration.. With Bennett it is either sensor attachment to get the position of the tabs or nothing.

For me easy intstallation and no wire running, and doing as little as possible always wins.. especially if the end result is similar.. Not to heavy DIY inclined.. just light..

thanks for you input. I do appreciate everyone's view and input...
When they redesigned the 260DA (I had the previous model), they increased the deadrise from 19* to 21*, and it was quite a bit heavier. But the way they designed the hull, it was still very quick to plane. But I think with those other variables, it also made it a little quirky and prone to tipping over at certain speeds such as just before being on plane. Actually, most V-hull style boats are prone to tipping (listing) at those speeds when too much hull is in the water (hull steer). But on this boat it is a little more exaggerated. I assume you've read the "tips" for trim operation by Dave S.?

I agree - the installation ease of the Mente system is certainly a plus. I'm sure you'll be happy with whatever you decide.
 
I was referring to the ATC. You could very well be right about the Pro version and it's inception - I have no experience using or installing the Pro version. However, from what I've known about Bennett over the last 30+ years in dealing with them and using their product, I wouldn't hesitate to use it. They've been a reliable, stand-up company for a long, long time. But again, that's not to discount the Mente product in any way.
Before I bought my Sundancer I test drove Four winns,Regal,Chaparral,etc. they all had the Bennett trim tabs. The standard 2 rocker switch system. I also tested a Rinker that had a Bennett LED display with the Tab control. I thought that was pretty cool. As a new boater I found the tabs confusing so I started searching for an Auto system.
 
When they redesigned the 260DA (I had the previous model), they increased the deadrise from 19* to 21*, and it was quite a bit heavier. But the way they designed the hull, it was still very quick to plane. But I think with those other variables, it also made it a little quirky and prone to tipping over at certain speeds such as just before being on plane. Actually, most V-hull style boats are prone to tipping (listing) at those speeds when too much hull is in the water (hull steer). But on this boat it is a little more exaggerated. I assume you've read the "tips" for trim operation by Dave S.?

I agree - the installation ease of the Mente system is certainly a plus. I'm sure you'll be happy with whatever you decide.

Yes I use Dave’s tips on getting on plane. I have never found my 260 to have any problems no matter how heavily loaded it is.
We did have a few instances when I first started with the 260 of falling to one side getting on plane because I was too slow trimming up the out drive. I learned really quick :)
 
Yes I use Dave’s tips on getting on plane. I have never found my 260 to have any problems no matter how heavily loaded it is.
We did have a few instances when I first started with the 260 of falling to one side getting on plane because I was too slow trimming up the out drive. I learned really quick :)
Experience is the best way to learn!

But, yeah, pretty much all boats will exhibit this listing/falling to one side - even little bow riders. It really just comes down to physics - too much hull in the water for a given speed. But I can imagine, if this was a new thing to you, how disconcerting it might be!
 
I only had to Run a ground wire from the Mente to a spare ground point near the fuses at panel below steering wheel. It was no big deal because the Mente is mounted below switch panel above Windlass control on right side. So it’s a short run with easy access.
If you want a picture of my installation let me know.
If you get a chance to send me the pics it would be great.
Cheers
 
If you get a chance to send me the pics it would be great.
Cheers
Pretty straight forward install.
Last picture is what the back of the original Tab switch looks like. I cut off the wires as close to the connectors on switch so I had as much too work with as possible. I think there are 5 wires plus the ground. The manual is very detailed on the colors.
The Mente fit in the square opening no problem. I just had to drill 2 holes.
The Mente has typical European connector where you just strip wire and insert and tighten screw. Only thing extra was add ground wire. I just crimped on female blade connector and used spare blade on ground side of fuse panel. I circled that area and pointed to my ground wire. As soon as I power up the main batteries it powers on. I did not use ignition switch power. The Mente automatically goes into standby/sleep mode if not used so it’s ok to leave it powered all the time.
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I put a short video together of the Mente Marine auto trim tab control in action.
Starts out from slow to on plane then in a turn you see how it goes into standby and then slowing to no wake speed where the tabs retract and system goes into standby.
We had been out for a week so the the fresh water tank is probably almost empty and the holding tank almost full so we are heavy on the starboard side. You will see the extra led on the right side indicating the extra tab extended to keep us level.
 
Pretty straight forward install.
Last picture is what the back of the original Tab switch looks like. I cut off the wires as close to the connectors on switch so I had as much too work with as possible. I think there are 5 wires plus the ground. The manual is very detailed on the colors.
The Mente fit in the square opening no problem. I just had to drill 2 holes.
The Mente has typical European connector where you just strip wire and insert and tighten screw. Only thing extra was add ground wire. I just crimped on female blade connector and used spare blade on ground side of fuse panel. I circled that area and pointed to my ground wire. As soon as I power up the main batteries it powers on. I did not use ignition switch power. The Mente automatically goes into standby/sleep mode if not used so it’s ok to leave it powered all the time.
View attachment 78062 View attachment 78063 View attachment 78064 View attachment 78066
Hey Radscoot this is awesome. Thanks so much.. I placed the order and should be getting in early January.

Happy Holidays!!
 

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