Bennett Trim Tabs Kit 60″ x 12″ w/o Control Review

Was the Bennett Trim Tabs Kit 60″ x 12″ w/o Control the Right Choice?

As someone who spends a significant amount of time navigating the often-unpredictable waters of boating, having reliable equipment is not just a convenience; it’s a necessity. My particular vessel, a 32-foot cabin cruiser, has always been a bit of a handful at higher speeds, prone to porpoising and struggling with optimal trim, especially under varying load conditions. I was looking for a robust solution to improve handling, fuel efficiency, and overall ride comfort, something that offered precise control without overly complicated installation. After poring over specifications and user feedback for various marine hardware, the Bennett Trim Tabs Kit 60″ x 12″ w/o Control caught my eye. This particular kit from Bennett Trim Tabs promised a substantial 60″ x 12″ surface area, a crucial factor for a boat of my size, and a reputation for solid, hydraulic performance. I considered a few less-established brands that offered electric actuators at a lower price point, but the proven track record and the simplicity of Bennett’s hydraulic system, specifically its self-contained actuators, ultimately steered me toward this kit. My initial impression upon unboxing was one of robust engineering; the stainless steel plates felt substantial and well-formed, and the hydraulic components exuded a sense of rugged dependability.

Real-World Testing: Putting Bennett Trim Tabs Kit 60″ x 12″ w/o Control to the Test

First Use Experience

My initial testing of the Bennett Trim Tabs Kit 60″ x 12″ w/o Control took place in a relatively calm bay near my home marina, under fair weather conditions with a moderate breeze. Installation, while requiring a bit of careful measurement and drilling through the transom, was straightforward thanks to the clear instructions provided and the inherent simplicity of the hydraulic system. The absence of external hoses, a key feature of Bennett’s patented design, was immediately appreciated as it eliminated a common point of failure and clutter on the transom. After bleeding the hydraulic system, which is a crucial step for optimal performance, I powered up the associated control unit (purchased separately, as this kit is w/o Control). The actuators responded crisply, moving the large 60″ x 12″ tabs with noticeable force. The real test came when I engaged the throttles. With the tabs extended slightly, I immediately felt a difference. The boat settled into the water more effectively, the stern lifting slightly and the bow angle decreasing significantly. This resulted in a smoother ride, less spray over the bow, and a reduction in the tendency to porpoise that I had grown accustomed to. The precision of the hydraulic control allowed for fine-tuning, and I was able to dial in the perfect trim for cruising speed in a matter of minutes, achieving a noticeably flatter and more stable ride.

Extended Use & Reliability

Over the past boating season, this trim tab kit has seen consistent use across a variety of conditions, from glassy calm mornings to choppy seas with significant wave action. The Bennett Trim Tabs Kit 60″ x 12″ w/o Control has held up exceptionally well, with no signs of degradation or performance issues. The stainless steel tabs have resisted any corrosion or pitting, even with regular exposure to saltwater, and the hydraulic system remains as responsive and leak-free as it was on day one. Maintenance has been minimal, primarily involving a quick rinse with fresh water after saltwater outings and occasional checks of the hydraulic fluid level, which has remained constant. Compared to a previous boat where I had a less robust trim tab system, the longevity and consistent performance of this Bennett kit are remarkable. There’s no perceptible stiffness in the actuators, no leaks from the seals, and the precision alignment mentioned in the product description seems to hold true, ensuring smooth and predictable tab movement with every adjustment. The large 60″ x 12″ tabs provide ample leverage, allowing me to maintain optimal trim even when the boat is heavily loaded for a day trip or when encountering challenging wave patterns.

Breaking Down the Features of Bennett Trim Tabs Kit 60″ x 12″ w/o Control

Specifications

The Bennett Trim Tabs Kit 60″ x 12″ w/o Control is designed for substantial vessels, featuring two large trim tabs, each measuring 60″ x 12″. These are constructed from high-quality stainless steel, a critical material choice for marine environments due to its inherent resistance to corrosion. The actuators are hydraulic, a system known for its strength and durability; the key innovation here is the patented through-hull hydraulic system, which houses the hydraulic fluid and piston within the actuator itself, eliminating vulnerable external hoses. This design significantly contributes to the units’ increased service life. The kit includes the tabs and the hydraulic actuators but notably excludes the control system, meaning it requires integration with an existing or separately purchased electric trim tab driver or an external hydraulic power unit. This allows for a high degree of customization in the control interface, whether a simple rocker switch or a more advanced digital display. The black color of the tabs is a subtle aesthetic choice that blends well with most boat hulls.

Performance & Functionality

The primary job of trim tabs is to allow for precise control over a boat’s running attitude, and this kit excels at it. The 60″ x 12″ size provides significant surface area, translating into powerful lift and trim capabilities. This means I can effectively counteract hull designs that tend to “dig in” or “porpoise,” especially at speed or when changing speeds. The hydraulic actuators deliver consistent and proportional control; there’s no lag or jerky movement, just smooth, predictable adjustment. This allows for minute corrections that drastically improve ride comfort and efficiency. The ability to fine-tune the boat’s trim not only smooths out the ride in rough conditions but also contributes to improved fuel economy by allowing the boat to plane efficiently at lower speeds. I’ve found it particularly useful when cruising at displacement speeds, where a slight adjustment can significantly reduce drag. The precision alignment ensures that both tabs move in perfect sync, preventing any unwanted turning tendencies.

Design & Ergonomics

From a design perspective, Bennett has prioritized durability and functional simplicity. The stainless steel plates are cleanly sheared and bent, not welded, a manufacturing technique that Bennett Trim Tabs highlights for its enhanced dependability. This results in a robust, one-piece construction that is less prone to stress fractures. The hydraulic actuators are a marvel of engineering; their compact, sealed design is both aesthetically pleasing and highly practical, minimizing exposure to the elements. While the kit w/o Control means the ergonomics of the user interface are entirely up to the installer, the physical components themselves are designed for long-term, trouble-free operation. The transom mounting brackets are sturdy and appear well-engineered to withstand the forces exerted by the tabs at speed. The overall impression is one of solid, marine-grade construction designed for the harsh realities of saltwater environments, built for functionality rather than flash.

Durability & Maintenance

The Bennett Trim Tabs Kit 60″ x 12″ w/o Control is built for longevity. The choice of stainless steel for the tabs is a clear indicator of its intended lifespan, as it’s highly resistant to saltwater corrosion and abrasion from debris. The hydraulic system, with its sealed actuators and lack of external hoses, is designed to be virtually maintenance-free. The primary maintenance involves ensuring the hydraulic fluid level is correct and the system is free of air. I’ve found that regular rinsing with fresh water after each use is sufficient to keep the tabs and actuators in excellent condition. I haven’t encountered any signs of wear, such as cracks, leaks, or performance degradation, even after significant use in varied sea states. The only potential point of concern, common to any transom-mounted hardware, is ensuring secure mounting to prevent stress on the hull, but the design of the mounting hardware appears robust enough for this purpose.

Accessories and Customization Options

This particular kit is a foundational component, being sold w/o Control. This means the primary “accessory” it relies on is the separate control system. Bennett offers a range of control options, from simple rocker switches to sophisticated integrated electronic controls that offer features like automatic tab retraction and independent tab control. The hydraulic power unit and the actuators themselves are the core of the system. The sheared and bent stainless steel plates are designed for optimal hydraulic application. While there aren’t specific customization options for the tabs themselves beyond the dimensions (which are fixed at 60″ x 12″ for this model), the lack of a control system offers maximum flexibility in how the user interacts with the trim tabs. Buyers have the freedom to choose a control system that perfectly matches their boat’s electrical system and their personal preferences for operation.

Pros and Cons of Bennett Trim Tabs Kit 60″ x 12″ w/o Control

Who Should Buy Bennett Trim Tabs Kit 60″ x 12″ w/o Control?

This Bennett Trim Tabs Kit 60″ x 12″ w/o Control is an excellent choice for owners of medium to larger recreational powerboats, particularly those in the 30-foot range and above, where improved stability, fuel efficiency, and ride comfort are paramount. It’s ideal for individuals who already have a preferred control system or are looking to upgrade from a basic electric setup to a more robust hydraulic system. This kit would appeal to the DIY boat owner who is comfortable with moderate installation tasks or those who have a trusted marine mechanic for the job. If you’re experiencing significant porpoising, planing issues, or uneven trim, especially with a heavier load, this kit offers a substantial upgrade.

Anyone with a smaller vessel (under 25 feet) might find the 60″ x 12″ tabs to be oversized, potentially causing issues with control or even hull damage. Similarly, if you are on a very tight budget and only need minimal trim correction, a smaller electric trim tab kit might suffice. For those seeking a plug-and-play experience with an integrated control, a complete kit with controls would be a more direct route. Essential complementary items would include a reliable hydraulic power unit, a suitable control switch or panel, appropriate wiring, and potentially a sealant specifically designed for marine thru-hull installations.

Conclusion on Bennett Trim Tabs Kit 60″ x 12″ w/o Control

The Bennett Trim Tabs Kit 60″ x 12″ w/o Control represents a significant investment in the performance and comfort of a larger vessel. Its robust hydraulic system and the substantial 60″ x 12″ stainless steel tabs deliver exceptional trim control, smoothing out rides in rough seas and improving fuel efficiency. The patented through-hull design is a standout feature, promising long-term durability by eliminating common failure points like external hoses. While the $1159.00 price tag, excluding the control system, requires careful budgeting, the quality and performance justify the cost for those who demand the best in marine hardware. I would readily recommend this kit to any serious boater looking to enhance their vessel’s handling, provided they have the appropriate vessel size and are prepared to integrate it with a suitable control system. It’s a testament to Bennett Trim Tabs‘ reputation for building reliable, high-performance marine equipment that stands the test of time and the rigors of the ocean.