99 Sundancer 270 SE tab size or different approach

B

Bob & Sue

Active Member
Jun 3, 2011
1,637
Browns Point Tacoma WA
Boat Info
Sold 1999 270DA Sundancer
Engines
5.7l Mercuiser
I have a 99 270 SE with Bennett 12x12 tabs they work fine for most of the time I boat mostly in Puget Sound with a lot of changing conditions we have been out the last 3 days one evening we had 15-20 knot winds 4' wind waves the next morning 1 knot winds calm. I have no problem planing at 24 knots 1-2' waves my question is sometimes in rough weather rip tides white caps we would like to be able to stay on plane around 10 knots. Using a digital degree gauge 24 knots on plane boat angle is between 4-6 degrees, at 10 knots with wind lots of chop tabs all the way down boat angle is 7-8 degrees. Any suggestions on getting closer to 5 degrees in rough water, larger tabs, different approach.
Thanks in advance
 
Bob and Sue,

Like many boats the stock 12 x 12 Trim Tabs on your 270 are what we would consider undersized. A look at our sizing guidelines shows that we recommend 12 x 12 Trim Tabs for boats up to 24 feet. I did search for pictures of Trim Tabs on that year boat and came up with this:
99_Sea_Ray_270_009.jpg


They look to be "stock" 12 x 12s, we make some custom parallelogram Trim Tabs for SeaRay about that size for some angled transoms. Since they are stock Trim Tabs installing larger ones would be pretty straight forward and what I would recommend. 18 x 12 or better yet 24 x 12 Trim Tabs would help you achieve the flatter running angle at lower speeds you are looking for. The larger the Trim Tab the lower the throttle setting you will be able to hold the bow down. Also the larger Trim Tabs will actually create less drag than the smaller ones since they will need to be deflected less to generate the same amount of lift and will be much more efficient.

The limiting factor the span (side to side measurement) you can fit on the boat is that the inboard edge of the Trim Tabs should not be closer than 8" from the centerline of the I/O.
ttmt1.jpg


The actuator (ram) will need to be repositioned to be in the middle of the Trim Tab.

We have helped many boat owners install larger Trim Tabs on their boats for exactly the reasons mention and without exception it has worked well.

I hope this is helpful.

Tom McGow
Bennett Marine
 
Thanks for the quick reply I will be going down to the boat in the morning to drop some crab pots I'll take all the measurements to see which ones will fit then order some new tabs to install this fall or when the salmon run slows down.
 
Hi,
After measuring I could easily use the 24x12's my question is if I used the 18x12's now would I need to move the actuator cylinder? If I do need to move it I'll just wait till this fall and get 24x12's with the AC3000 unit & AR512 tab retractor. Where is the best place to purchase these in the Seattle, Tacoma area? I like to support local small business whenever it's possible.
Thanks in advance
Bob
 
Bob,

Yes, with either the 24 x 12 or the 18 x 12 I recommend moving the actuator to the middle of the Trim Tab.

Tom
Bennett Marine
 
Ok will be buying the 24x12's this fall after salmon runs slow down, just leaving for the late afternoon tide change. Will let you know how the perform after installation.
Again thanks for your prompt advice.
 
Bob,

I have the exact same issue you do - my 12x12 tabs on my '89 250DA are undersized, and in our often choppy Puget Sound waters a well trimmed boat can easily get overwhelmed and lead to an uncomfortable ride back to the marina. I just bought a 12x24 Bennett kit with the EIC control and the ATC3000 auto system. Haven't installed it yet, but I'm looking forward to seeing what a difference the larger planes make. For local purchases, I highly recommend fisheries supply in Fremont, even though I ordered mine online. Register for an account (it's free) and you do get a discount on certain purchases.

Rich

Edit - just realized you posted in the thread I started in Sport Cruisers - once i get a chance to install my new tabs/control system I'll make sure to post my impressions of both the larger planes and the ATC system....
 
Last edited:
MM,

Yes Trim Plane Assemblies can be purchased from just about any marine equipment dealer. Do a quick internet search for the size you are looking for and you will see a lot of dealers.

Tom
 
Tabman said:
MM,

Yes Trim Plane Assemblies can be purchased from just about any marine equipment dealer. Do a quick internet search for the size you are looking for and you will see a lot of dealers.

Tom
Click to expand...

Thanks Tom, I just want to make sure you understood my question as I was not very clear. I am asking about upgrading to your recommended size by replacing the assemblies. Thanks again, MM
 
boykster said:
Bob,

I have the exact same issue you do - my 12x12 tabs on my '89 250DA are undersized, and in our often choppy Puget Sound waters a well trimmed boat can easily get overwhelmed and lead to an uncomfortable ride back to the marina. I just bought a 12x24 Bennett kit with the EIC control and the ATC3000 auto system. Haven't installed it yet, but I'm looking forward to seeing what a difference the larger planes make. For local purchases, I highly recommend fisheries supply in Fremont, even though I ordered mine online. Register for an account (it's free) and you do get a discount on certain purchases.
Click to expand...

I do have an account with Fisheries Supply great people to deal with I bought a new heater fan from them.
thanks
 
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