Cap'n Morgan wrote:
Tabs fully extended and sterndrive fully in when getting on plane. Once on plane, trim sterndrives out and bring tabs up fully.
I feel this is incorrect usage of trim tabs, as exampled in the very article you quote from BoatUS:
Quote:
Also, get into the habit of making sure your tabs are fully retracted before pushing the throttles forward each time you go to get on plane so you don't get caught off guard by a tab-induced list. Most trim-tab manufacturers offer an auto-retract feature for this reason.
I do just this. Yes, it takes a couple seconds longer to get on plane, but the boat is in better control. Once fully settled on plane, I level the boat with the tabs then trim the drives up, in that order. Make sure you're fully settled on plane before you trim the drives as this can easily cause the stern to dig in and drag, you get into a very bow-high attitude, she's hard to control and very uncomfortable for your pax.
Trim tabs take fairly constant adjustment to keep the boat level and the ride most comfortable for your passengers. When using tabs, actuate a click or two, then wait, as the delay in response is significant (a couple seconds to settle). Repeat as necessary.