SeaKnights.com

Boat Steering Cable | Marine Hydraulic Steering | Teleflex | Seastar

  • Home
  • Steering Kits
    • BayStar Hydraulic Steering Kit HK4200A-3 Review & Installation Guide
  • Trim Tabs
  • Parts
    • Cylinders
    • Hydrofoils
    • Jackplates
    • Purging
  • Service
    • How To’s
    • Manuals
  • About
  • Contact
  • Blog

scottb July 16, 2020

Nauticus Smart Tabs Review: The Optimal Solution to Achieve Perfect Trim and Stability!

Last updated on March 14th, 2023 at 12:44 am

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

CLICK FOR PRICE

 

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

scottb 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

CLICK FOR PRICE

 

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

CLICK FOR PRICE

 

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

CLICK FOR PRICE

 

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

CLICK FOR PRICES

 

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

CLICK FOR PRICE

 

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

CLICK FOR PRICE

 

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

CLICK FOR PRICE

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

scottb May 10, 2020

Lenco Trim Tab Switch Kit For Sale

Last updated on July 16th, 2020 at 06:05 pm

If you are looking to install or replace a trim tab switch for your Lenco system, then you are going to need a Lenco trim tab switch kit. There are several different switches to choose from, so it’s important to use the comparison chart below and pick the correct one for your system.

Lenco Trim Tab Switch Kit

Lenco trim tab switch kits are great because their switches are among the most dependable and innovative trim tab switches that you can buy today. We love the design and quality of Lenco products in general, and their switches deliver instant response at the touch of a button. This allows you to easily position and balance your boat with great ease by controlling your Lenco trim tab actuator.

Lenco trim tab switches are 100% waterproof and maintenance-free. The key pads and control box module are sealed and self-contained. Every Lenco trim tab switch kit is low profile and features fade-proof laser engraved graphics. They also come with a simple wiring guide making installing them yourself quick and easy.

Lenco Trim Tab Actuator 101

CLICK FOR PRICE

 

Lenco Trim Tab Switch Kit Comparison Chart

Many of the various Lenco trim switches do look identical, and some come with various cable lengths, so it’s important that you identify and order the proper Lenco switch kit for your system.

TRIM TAB SWITCHPART NUMBERUPCCHECK PRICE

Lenco LED Indicator Integrated Tactile Switch Kit w/Pigtail f/Single Actuator Systems

Lenco LED Indicator Integrated Tactile Switch Kit w/Pigtail f/Single Actuator Systems15170-001874847007573
CHECK PRICE

Lenco LED Indicator Integrated Tactile Switch Kit w/Pigtail f/Dual Actuator Systems

Lenco LED Indicator Integrated Tactile Switch Kit w/Pigtail f/Dual Actuator Systems15171-001874847007580
CHECK PRICE

Lenco Marine Inc 15270-001 Led Indicator Two-Piece Tactile (Single)

Lenco Marine Inc 15270-001 Led Indicator Two-Piece Tactile (Single)15270-001874847007658
CHECK PRICE

Lenco Marine Inc 15271-001 Led Indicator Two-Piece Tactile (Dual)

Lenco Marine Inc 15271-001 Led Indicator Two-Piece Tactile (Dual)15271-001874847007603
CHECK PRICE

LENCO MARINE Switch KIT F/Trim TAB Double Rocker (single)

LENCO MARINE Switch KIT F/Trim TAB Double Rocker (Single)10222-211D874847005289
CHECK PRICE

LENCO MARINE Switch KIT F/Trim TAB Double Rocker (Dual)

LENCO MARINE Switch KIT F/Trim TAB Double Rocker (Dual)10221-211D874847007085
CHECK PRICE

No products found.

Lenco Marine Inc 15169-001 Standard Integrated Tactile (Single)15169-001874847007566
CHECK PRICE

Lenco Single Rocker Switch f/ Single Hatchlift Applications

Lenco Hatch Lift Rocker Switch (Single)15096-001874847005708
CHECK PRICE

Lenco Hatch Lift Rocker Switch (Dual)

Lenco Hatch Lift Rocker Switch (Dual)15098-001874847006101
CHECK PRICE

Lenco Airboat Trim Tab Rocker Switch

Lenco Airboat Trim Tab Rocker Switch15095-001874847005692
CHECK PRICE
Flybridge Standard Key pad with 10' (3m) Shielded Harness11841-101874847007467
CHECK PRICE

Flybridge LED Key Pad with 20' (6.1m) Shielded Harness

Flybridge LED Key Pad with 20' (6.1m) Shielded Harness11841-002874847007429
CHECK PRICE

Flybridge Kits for LED Integrated Kits (Two-Piece)

Flybridge Kits for LED Integrated Kits (Two-Piece)11941-002874847007528
CHECK PRICE

Lenco LED Switches

Lenco LED tactile switches have a unique ability to return the tabs to a fully retracted position once the power is removed, thanks to their built-in retract feature. They feature two high intensity L.E.D. lights which indicate the precise position of your boat’s trim tabs at all times.

Conclusion

Lenco trim tab switch kits are low profile, waterproof, maintenance-free, provide instant response, and are super simple to install. Just follow the included installation instructions and you can have one of these switches up and running in under an hour.

You may also be interested in our Lenco Auto Glide Review or discover the simplicity of Nauticus trim tabs.

Filed Under: Trim Tabs Tagged With: switches

scottb May 9, 2020

Lenco Trim Tab Actuator 101 Replacement Guide

Last updated on March 29th, 2023 at 03:49 am

The Lenco Trim Tab Actuator 101 replacement is a very simple DIY job. We provide a video and guide below to show you exactly how to do this job.

Lenco 101 Actuator For Sale

The Lenco Trim Tab Actuator 101 features a ballscrew design which makes it far more reliable and also twice as powerful as other, traditional hydraulic actuators. These are easily controlled by a Lenco trim tab switch kit.

The Lenco 101 actuator is super tough and high-torque, capable of easily pushing 750 lbs. The connections for the Lenco marine actuator are waterproof and plug & play, which makes them super easy to connect and eliminate any chance of leaks.

Lenco Trim Tab Actuator 101

CLICK FOR PRICE

 

UPC #: 874847003186

Lenco 101 & 102 Parts

The Lenco 101 and Lenco 102 come in various models and part numbers. Check the comparison chart below.

PARTSPART NUMBERCHECK PRICE
LENCO MARINE Actuator 101 Standard15054-001
CHECK PRICE
LENCO MARINE Actuator STD 4 1/4" 12V 5/16"15059-001
CHECK PRICE
Lenco 102 Series Standard Actuator - 24V - 4-1/4" Stroke15066-001
CHECK PRICE
LENCO MARINE Lenco 102XD Extreme Duty Actuator - 12V - 4-1/4" Stroke15060-001
CHECK PRICE
Lenco 101Xd Extreme Duty Actuator - 12V - 2 1/4" Stroke15056-001
CHECK PRICE

Lenco Trim Tab Actuator Replacement Guide

Over the years, the Lenco 101 actuator has seen numerous design improvements. Among them are molded-in brass thrust bearing, a stronger top cap with pressure tight torx screws, integrated seal at the base of the actuator, a stronger, thicker housing wall, over-molded cable for tighter, stronger seal, improved O-rings, and a gland seal on the upper mounting bracket.

At some point, you will likely need to replace your old actuator and upgrade to a newer one. If you are looking to replace your Lenco actuator, we have made it easy for you to view or download the Lenco Trim Tab Actuator Replacement Guide. You can also follow along in the video below to see how exactly to do a Lenco actuator replacement. It is a very simple, quick, and straightforward procedure.

Conclusion

As you can see, doing a Lenco trim tab actuator replacement is something that most people should be able to do themselves. The job shouldn’t take any longer than 30 minutes. Whether you get the Lenco 101 or Lenco 102 XD, you can be sure that you will get many years of great performance from your Lenco marine actuator.

Filed Under: Service, Trim Tabs Tagged With: How To's

scottb May 9, 2020

Lenco Auto Glide Review, Installation, & Owners Manual

Last updated on March 29th, 2023 at 03:50 am

If you are you looking for the Lenco Auto Glide kit review and installation guide, then you’ve come to the right place.

Lenco Auto Glide Review

The No products found. 15500-101 is an automatic boat control and trim tab control system which works automatically to provide a smoother ride and better fuel efficiency.

The Lenco marine Auto Glide system adjusts your Lenco trim tabs as necessary by using both GPS data and engine data (depending upon how you have it installed). This ensures that your boat is running at the most efficient angle as possible. After the installation process of the Lenco self leveling trim tabs kit, you will be able to determine the optimum running angle.

No products found.

CLICK FOR PRICE

 

The system works by measuring your boat’s running angle about 25 times each second. It then takes this information into the control box and tells the Lenco auto trim tabs to do the following:

  • Ensures that your boat remains level at all times.
  • Eliminates bow bounce (porpoising).
  • Reduces how much bow rise there is during hole shot mode.
  • Determines and executes the most efficient boat running angle.

When these factors are combined, the result is a maximum fuel efficiency and smoothest ride.

What we liked even more during our review and testing was that the 15500-101 system has many features and options for the operator to choose from. For example, while you will most likely want to keep the system in automatic mode, you can very easily switch to manual mode simply by pressing a button on the key pad.

Lenco Auto Glide Parts

Please keep in mind that in order to use this system, your boat must already have the Lenco Single Trim Tab System with the Lenco Electric Actuators. Other than that, the kit comes with all of the Lanco Auto Glide parts that you need.

The key components are the control box, Key Pad, Control Box Main Harness, and of course various cables. The cables are used to connect the Lenco marine Auto Glide system to your GPS device, a Stand Alone GPS Receiver/Antenna, your engine(s), and your network.

The Kit Contains:

  • 1 30254-001D Auto Glide Key Pad Control
  • 3 30267-001D Tee Connector Only
  • 1 30281-001D Power Cable – NMEA 2000 Network 2.5′
  • 1 30268-002D Terminating Resistor – Male
  • 2 30268-001D Terminating Resistor – Female
  • 1 30262-001D CAN bus #2 GPS/NMEA 2000 Network Adapter Cable – 2.5′
  • 1 30266-001 NMEA 2000 GPS Antenna Only
  • 1 30248-001 Auto Glide Control Box Harness f/ Single Actuator
  • 1 30259-001D CAN bus #1 NMEA2000 Cable – 2.5′
  • 1 30255-001 Auto Glide Control Box f/ Single Actuator

Any spare parts or longer cables can be purchased separately, of course.

PARTSPART NUMBERCHECK PRICE
Lenco Auto Glide Adapter Extension Cable - 30'30260-004
CHECK PRICE
Lenco Auto Glide Adapter Extension Cable - 40'30260-005
CHECK PRICE
Lenco Auto Glide Adapter Extension Cable - 50'30260-006
CHECK PRICE
Lenco Auto Glide Control Box, Dual Actuator30256-001
CHECK PRICE
Lenco Gps Control Box Mtg Brkt70568-001
CHECK PRICE

Lenco Auto Glide Installation

If you can read and follow directions, then you should be able to tackle the Lenco Auto Glide installation as a DIY job. The owners manual with all of the installation instructions is linked below. Of course, having the system installed at your local dealer or marine shop is also always an option.

Lenco Auto Glide Owners Manual

The Lenco Auto Glide owner’s manual consists of two parts: A & B.

Part A of the Lenco Auto Glide owners manual is for the installation and setup procedures. You can download a copy of it here.

Part B of the owner’s manual is for operational instructions. You can download it here.

Lenco Auto Glide Troubleshooting

If you have having problems and need to do some Lenco Auto Glide troubleshooting, you should check out the video above, as well as consult part B of the owner’s manual. You can also download this handy Lenco AG Quick Reference Guide for further troubleshooting.

Lenco Auto Glide Price

The Lenco Auto Glide price will of course vary depending upon where you buy it. In our experience, Amazon typically has the best Lenco Auto Glide price out of all of the online retailers that we checked. However, you should check it out on Wolf Creek Depot and use code WCD10 for 10% off, as it may be cheaper for you there.

Conclusion

If you are looking to improve the handling and performance of your boat, then installing a Lenco Auto Glide kit is a great upgrade to consider. It can help make your boat safer and improve fuel efficiency, as well.

During our testing and review, we found the Lenco Auto Glide to be comparable in performance to the Bennett AutoTrim Pro system.

UPC #: 874847006712

Filed Under: Service, Trim Tabs Tagged With: How To's, manuals

Disclaimer: As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. SeaKnights.com provides lists of the best marine hydraulic steering products for boaters who quickly want to know what to get. When readers choose to buy our independently chosen editorial picks, we earn affiliate commissions that support our work. Here is an explanation of exactly what we do, and how to support our work.

Privacy Policy

Terms & Conditions

Most Popular Boat Hydraulic Steering Guides

Boat Steering Cable Guide

SeaStar Solutions Hydraulic Steering Guide

Complete Hydraulic Boat Steering Guide

Popular Articles

  • Foolproof Hynautic Steering Bleeding Instructions: Smoother Turns and Better Performance
  • A Guide to Hynautic Steering Troubleshooting: Don’t Let Steering Issues Sink Your Fun
  • Hynautic Steering System Owner’s Manual: Your Guide to Installation and Service
  • SE Sport Hydrofoil Reviews: The Definitive Guide to Improving Your Boat’s Handling and Speed!
  • Nauticus Smart Tabs Review: The Optimal Solution to Achieve Perfect Trim and Stability!
  • Bennett Trim Tabs Review: Achieve Unmatched Boat Stability and Performance
  • Mityvac 7201 Fluid Evacuator Plus Review
  • Lenco Trim Tab Switch Kit For Sale
  • Lenco Trim Tab Actuator 101 Replacement Guide
  • Lenco Auto Glide Review, Installation, & Owners Manual

© Copyright 2023 SeaKnights.com · All Rights Reserved · And Our Sitemap · All Logos & Trademark Belongs To Their Respective Owners·