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Trim tabs on 1998 speedster

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Cdn20valve

Cdn20valve

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i just ordered a pair of smart tabs for my speedster. I boat on a pretty choppy lake, and I think I can benefit from keeping the bow down.

I heard that if the tabs are mounted on the sides, near the pumps, I lose reverse.

Here is my question. If I remove the little metal plates from the reverse jet deflector, and place them on the outside, thus blocking the reverse flow from hitting the tabs, will reverse work?

My back up plan is to install a single tab in the center... And I'd rather not drill a bunch of holes in the boat for nothing...
 
I received my nauticus sx trim tabs in the mail today. And like any gear head, i immediately started the install.
 
Can't comment on the reverse, I just don't use it to back up with my Speedster, it's a lost cause. I'm actually more interested in how you're going to cram tabs on the back of the Speedster. I investigated it years back and there is just limited room back there and I wanted power tabs.
 
I was wondering how you were gonna squeeze two in there. There is no way I could just do one just base on looks alone. Post pics of the project, curious to see how it turns out. Also interested in a ride report.
 
6CUDD5.jpg

A small modification to the tab hinge plate, too match the bottom of the boat.

The drain plug required the most fabrication. I had enlarge and raise the hole, and mount the drain plug flange onto the hinge plate.

I did not have marine grade silicone. Tomorrow, I'll take it off to clean and seal.

Im hoping to be out on the water on sat. I'll let you guys all know what the ride is like.
 
Hey, do me a favor and take a side shot of your boat on the lift. I've been wondering about doing that at my house but never did.
 
Had a chance to bring the boat to the water today. Big difference on ride comfort. The bow stayed nice and level on anything 2' and under. I was impressed! I could still turn on a dime, 360's were not a problem. Reverse was unaffected.
 
I adjusted the trim tab to setting 5. Wow. This boat is planted! Water was choppy as heck, and the boat was composed! I couldnt believe it.
 
Cdn20valve said:
Had a chance to bring the boat to the water today. Big difference on ride comfort. The bow stayed nice and level on anything 2' and under. I was impressed! I could still turn on a dime, 360's were not a problem. Reverse was unaffected.
Click to expand...

Still working good ?
 
Nice write up! I just bought my first jetboat, a 95 Speedster. There is no way to mount two tabs for sure. So I was wondering if one in the middle would work. Looks like it did, and mine has a nice flat mounting area with no drains or anything in the way. Does this help you get on plane faster still with only the one tab? Thats my issue now, I have new wear rings and impellers but with 2 big guys in the boat it wont get on plane without someone sitting in the bow.
 
this is a great thread! :lol:
I want to add a trim tab to my '99 SK
Does anyone know a place to buy just 1 of these instead of a set? "save a few bucks"
also do you think 60lb would be to strong?
 
I sold the boat. However, it was working great. The guys who bought it were very experienced with these boats and noticed the difference immediately. They said they've never seen a jet plane so fast and easy. With 3 guys in it too. 40 worked for me. Try 60. Nothing to lose but some money to change the actuator.
 
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