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Scott Barnes August 16, 2020

SE Sport Hydrofoil Reviews: Improved Outboard Motor Control

Last updated on April 2nd, 2023 at 10:33 pm

Are you looking for SE Sport Hydrofoil reviews? Or maybe you are wondering what a hydrofoil is and how it can benefit your boat. Either way, you have come to the right place.

A hydrofoil is a wing-like structure that you mount on the struts, which are located below the hull of your boat to raise the hull out of water when your vessel gains speed. This helps reduce the drag, thereby allowing it to increase the speed and enhance fuel efficiency. It works by moving smoothly through the water, thereby deflecting the flow of the water downwards. This, in turn, exerts an upward force on the SE Sport Hydrofoil, as the pressure at the bottom of the foil is usually higher than the top. Eventually, turbulence and drag act on the small foil surface instead of the whole vessel.

SE Sport 300 Hydrofoil Review

The SE Sport 300 hydrofoil boasts of a Turbo Track stylish design and meticulously contoured thrust-catching surface. A combination of the two features results in a boat that gets to the plane up the 50% faster than the conventional foils. The tracking helps stabilize the vessel with lots of ease. Also, the design of the hydrofoil enables the boat to plane at low RPM and speeds. This saves on fuel consumption, which translates into less cash spent on each trip. This model has been tested independently and won accolades for its narrow design. The design results in a small footprint for the drag forces to work on.

This modified shape does not affect the trim at low planning speeds. This ensures top performance. The manufacturer backs the claims with a lifetime warranty. The SE 300 Hydrofoil is recommended for sterndrives and outboards with a horsepower that ranges between 40 and 350. The hydrofoil comes with an optional sport clip that eliminates the need to drill the side of your vessel when installing in order to ensure easy installation. It also makes installation a lot faster without the need for technical tools or a helping hand.

Nauticus Smart Tabs sx

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SE Sport 400 Hydrofoil Review

The SE Sport 400 Hydrofoil gives you a higher performance boost than the SE 300 with better contour design and tracking. Unlike the SE Sport 300, it does not come with the sport clip. However, it still attaches to the engine’s cavitation plate without requiring you to drill some holes. It is even easier to install that the SE 300 which has a sport clip using a Philips screwdriver and wrench. It works with boats of varying horsepower between 40hp and 350hp. It can work with outboards, platoon boats, and deck boats. However, it does not work with Volvos as they exhaust via the cavitation plate.

The crescent shape allows the foil to funnel the water to cut down the thrust and cut planning time. It also keeps your vessel on the plane even when moving at lower speeds while at the same time enhancing its stability and saving on fuel. The hardware is made of copolymer construction that is strong and durable. It also has some stainless steel hardware. You can use the hydrofoil to eliminate chine walking, deep-V wander, cavitation, and porpoising. The SE Sport 400 hydrofoil is available in several colors that include yellow, blue, red, and silver.

Nauticus Smart Tabs sx

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SE Sport 200 Hydrofoil Review

The SE Sport 200 Hydrofoil is recommended for boats of between 8hp and 40hp. However, it can also work with sterndrive and outboard engines larger than 40hp. This is with the exception of Mercury 4 stokes of between 40hp and 60hp. On the other hand, if the cavitation plate is wider than five inches, consider going for the SE 300 as it performs better with that motor. Like all other hydrofoils from the same company, the SE 200 has a narrow profile, making it possible for them to work with a dual outboard stable configuration.

These hydrofoils are made of a polypropylene polymer that is more rigid than the conventional plastic. However, this does not make it heavier and remains in a low profile. Due to its unique design, it can keep the propeller in the water while at the same time reducing the cavitation and reducing the plane speed of the boat. The design also keeps water in a linear path to ensure that the boat reaches top speeds while at the same time reducing engine vibration.

The use of the hydrofoil helps eliminate the downturn trailing edge and the cupped underside in a bid to reduce the drag. The package comes with mounting hardware and instructions for the ease of installation. Additionally, the manufacturer offers a lifetime warranty on the product.

Nauticus Smart Tabs sx

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SE Sport Hydrofoil Installation Instructions

SE Sport Hydrofoil installation instructions are very simple to follow. You have an option of drilling or not drilling when installing the SE 400. The package comes with all the hardware that you require that includes lock nuts, washers, and bolts. You will need a Philips screwdriver or a socket wrench for installation.

Drilled Installation

Start by centering the hydrofoil on top of the cavitation plate. Then move it forward until it cannot move again. You may also place it in the rear of a trim tab so that you would not have to drill. Make four holes markings as on the hydrofoil, remove it, and drill your holes.

Use the Site gauge to ensure proper placement. Start by holding on the underside of the hydrofoil to ensure an appropriate hole alignment. Drill holes starting with the rear holes before going for the front holes.

Once the holes are ready, place the rubber washers on the cavitation plate such that the thin washers are at the front. Then, place your hydrofoil and secure it with bolts. Ensure that you tighten them well.

Non-Drill Installation

For the SE 400, use disk grips to enclose the hydrofoil and press it to the cavitation plate. Start by centering your foil and inserting both the washers and nuts. Tighten the nuts before placing the cover and locking it in place.

Conclusion

The SE Sport hydrofoil 200, 300, and 400 are meant to reduce the drag of the boat by lifting the hull. The company has uniquely shaped hydrofoils that stabilize the boat and enable the boat to plane at low speeds. They are easy to install and highly durable. They are a cheap and easy to install addition to any boat motor.

 

Filed Under: Parts Tagged With: hydrofoil

Scott Barnes July 16, 2020

Nauticus Smart Tabs Review: Trim Tabs To Boost Your Boat’s Performance

Last updated on April 2nd, 2023 at 10:38 pm

Nauticus smart tabs are small surfaces that you attach to your boat’s trailing edge to help control the boat. It enables you to deal with hydrodynamic forces that act on your boat which make it hard to maintain angle height and create drag. They work by adjusting the bow in relation to the main boat rudder.

One of the major benefits of using a Nauticus smart tab kit is that it helps your vessel or skiing gear get and maintain the required plane while lowering the bow rise. It also improves your boat’s performance by adjusting the running angle and ensures that your boat runs efficiently in turbulent waters. Nauticus provides a wide range of smart tabs, including Smart Tabs II and SX, for various vessels.

Nauticus Smart Tabs SX

The Nauticus Smart Tabs SX series is an improvement of the popular smart trim tabs. They incorporate all the features of the smart tab system, including all-around performance and ease of operation. Th SX series is also fully automatic so that you do not have to worry about checking on it. Using it comes with several benefits that include a smoother and faster acceleration, better handling of the vessel in turbulent waters, and improved fuel economy. Besides, the vessel does not porpoise at high speeds.

These Nauticux SX smart tabs are also corrosion-free and are not affected by the minerals of the salty sea. You can install them into your boat fast without the need for specialized equipment, as explained in the section below. The self-adjusting trim tabs bend according to sea conditions without the use of electric and hydraulic systems you find in many trim tabs.

Nauticus Smart Tabs sx

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Nauticus Smart Tabs Installation Instructions

Nauticus smart tabs installation instructions are very simple and can be done by anybody. No need to take your boat to a specialized marine mechanic. Just follow the directions below.

  1. Choose the location to install the trim tabs on your boat. Let it be about 5 inches from outside the edge of the transom.
  2. Mark the location of mounting holes using the hinge as the template.
  3. Drill the holes to mount the hinge.
  4. Install the hinge and apply a small amount of marine sealant in each hole. Avoid using excessive force when installing screws.
  5. Attach the plate by the use of snap and lock pins supplied with the kit.
  6. Attach the transom bracket to the top of the actuator.
  7. Attach the actuator to the plate at the bottom in the hole number #3. However, you may change it to adjust pressure after sea trials.

Nauticus Smart Tabs Replacement Parts

Almost all the parts in a Nauticus Smart Tab can be replaced with original items from the manufacturer. The parts do not reduce the durability of the item in any way. Some of the common parts include the composite hinge for the self-adjusting trim tabs, SX actuator hardware bag with self-locking pins, the clevis end fitting at the top and bottom of the actuator, and the entire actuator. Thankfully, each of these Nauticus smart tabs replacement parts are easy to find for sale online.

Conclusion

The Nauticus smart trim tabs are easy to install, yet highly effective tabs that you can use for your boat or skiing gear. It is easy to install and highly durable. Besides, most of the parts can be replaced at a fraction of the entire costs. It helps in the smooth operation of your boat and enables you to reach maximum speeds even in turbulent waters, among other benefits. Some feel that these tabs work even better than Lenco trim tabs or Bennett trim tabs. Hopefully you have found this Nauticus smart tabs review helpful.

Filed Under: Trim Tabs

Scott Barnes July 14, 2020

Bennett Trim Tabs Review: Achieve Unmatched Boat Stability and Performance

Last updated on March 14th, 2023 at 12:46 am

Bennett trim tabs are small surfaces that are attached to the trailing edge of the boat. Its main work is to help control trims. Essentially, it is used to counter hydrodynamic forces and stabilize your vessel without requiring you to keep applying force via the controls. You are only required to adjust the relative angle of the tab in relation to the larger control surface.

Trim tabs improve your boat’s performance by adjusting and maintaining its running angle. They also help your boat get on the required plane fast while at the same time reducing the bow rise. Additionally, they increase the efficiency and performance of the vessel, even in turbulent waters. Boat owners also use Bennett trim tabs to correct the rhythmic bouncing of the boat in case of a change in sea conditions. You have a choice of hydraulic, BOLT electric, and Bennett self-leveling trim tabs. However, they offer similar benefits. Now let’s review some of the key components of the system.

Bennett Trim Tab Parts

The Bennett trim tabs are made of the control unit, a power unit (pump), an actuator assembly, and a trim plane. The control unit has indicator lights for different controls and control buttons to change the orientation of the plane while the power unit powers the unit underwater. It may be either a hydraulic or a purely electric one.

Bennett Marine AutoTrim Pro control AP000A1BC

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On the other hand, the actuator is responsible for controlling the mechanism of the plane either electronically or by the use of hydraulics.

Bennett trim tab actuator

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The plane comes with backing plates to enhance its efficiency when in operation. Several smaller parts make up each of these major parts.

Bennett trim tab plane

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Bennett Trim Tab Switch

Bennett sells both hydraulic and electric trim tab switches, depending on the system you choose for your boat. Each of the switch times an ergonomic design for the ease of clicking. They are also marine-grade switches that do not deteriorate due to exposure to moisture. The action on each side of the click is shown on the panel. These switches are also pre-wired. All you are required is to plug them into the right outlets.

Bennett trim tab switch

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Bennett Trim Tab Pump

You may use the standard or the dual active trim tab pump for your Bennett trim tabs. The pump is the system that controls the hydraulics to determine the movement of the plane. In the pump, you will find the hydraulic fluid and electric system that receives instructions from the switch. It is handy and very efficient.

Bennett trim tab pump V351HPU1 Hydraulic Power Unit

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Bennett Trim Tab Indicator

The trim tab indicator control system comes with a soft-touch helm control, auto tab retractor feature and an indicator. There are LEDs on either side of the switch to show you the status of the plane at any time. You can control the intensity of the light on the LED, depending on the time of the day. The tab indicator is water-resistant. Therefore, it will not be damaged with an occasional splash.

Bennett trim tab indicator

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Bennett Trim Tab Conversion Kit

The Bennett Hydraulic to BOLT Electric Conversion Kit contains everything that you need for a quick and simple conversion from Bennett hydraulic actuators to Bennett’s BOLT Electric actuators. With this conversion kit you won’t need to do any new wiring or drilling. It also comes with a Lifetime warranty.

Bennett trim tab conversion kit

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Conclusion

Bennett has made effective and easy to control trim tabs. It also has various options depending on your preferences. However, whether going for hydraulic or self-leveling trim tabs, you get the same equality performance and a wealth of features. Bennett trim tabs systems are also easy to install, and you can replace individual parts.

Be sure to also check out our Nauticus smart tabs review, or learn about the Lenco trim tab switch kit.

Filed Under: Trim Tabs

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