Bennett Trim Tabs Lenco to Conversion Kit Review

Uncovering the Bennett Trim Tabs Lenco to Conversion Kit: Real Review

For boat owners who have wrestled with the intricacies of Lenco trim tab systems, the Bennett Trim Tabs Lenco to Conversion Kit emerges as a potentially game-changing solution. My own journey to this particular product began with a persistent issue: the aging and increasingly unreliable Lenco actuators on my vessel were becoming a significant drain on time and resources, with replacement parts proving costly and repairs a frequent necessity. The prospect of outright replacing the entire trim tab system felt like an extravagant expense, pushing me to seek a more economical and pragmatic alternative. This conversion kit promised just that, offering a pathway to leverage existing Lenco trim planes while integrating Bennett’s renowned hydraulic power unit.

My initial impression upon unboxing the kit was one of pragmatic engineering. The components felt robust, and the inclusion of custom adapter plates immediately suggested thoughtful design aimed at simplifying the transition. While the price point of $419.99 certainly warrants careful consideration, it paled in comparison to the quotes I’d received for a full system replacement. I had briefly explored universal electric-to-hydraulic conversion kits, but the specific compatibility with my existing Lenco trim planes made this Bennett option the clear front-runner. There was a palpable sense of relief, mingled with keen anticipation, as I began to assess the contents and plan the installation.

Real-World Testing: Putting Bennett Trim Tabs Lenco to Conversion Kit to the Test

The testing ground for this conversion kit was my 32-foot express cruiser, a vessel that sees consistent use on saltwater in varied conditions, from calm inland waters to more challenging offshore excursions. Installation took place in my home workshop, followed immediately by sea trials. The process of adapting the existing Lenco trim planes to the new Bennett hydraulic actuators was surprisingly straightforward, largely thanks to the custom adapter plates provided in the kit. These plates eliminated the need for any patching or re-drilling of mounting holes, a significant win for anyone who has faced the frustration of aligning hardware on a boat hull.

My first few outings were focused on evaluating the responsiveness and stability offered by the new hydraulic system. I ran the boat through a spectrum of speeds and sea states, meticulously observing how the trim tabs adjusted to maintain optimal planing angles. The Bennett Hydraulic Power Unit proved to be quiet and remarkably efficient, providing smooth, consistent hydraulic pressure to the new actuators. Compared to the often-jerky and sometimes hesitant performance of the Lenco electric actuators, this hydraulic system offered a noticeable improvement in control and a more refined ride.

Over several months and dozens of operating hours, the Bennett Trim Tabs Lenco to Conversion Kit has held up exceptionally well. I’ve encountered everything from light chop to moderate swells, and the trim tabs have consistently performed without faltering. There has been no evidence of leaks from the actuators or the power unit, and the water-resistant rocker switch has continued to function flawlessly, even after exposure to spray and occasional heavy rain. Maintenance has been minimal; a quick rinse with fresh water after saltwater use and a check of fluid levels in the power unit are all that has been required. This level of durability and ease of care stands in stark contrast to the frequent troubleshooting and lubrication demands of my previous Lenco setup.

First Use Experience

The initial installation was completed over a weekend, with most of the time dedicated to carefully removing the old Lenco components and fitting the new ones. The included two standard actuators and the Bennett Hydraulic Power Unit were easily integrated, and the wiring harness for the rocker switch control was logically laid out. I found the instructions to be clear, though a basic understanding of marine electrical systems is beneficial. My only minor hiccup was ensuring the correct orientation of one of the adapter plates, a small detail that required a brief consultation with the included manual.

Once on the water, the difference was immediately apparent. The rocker switch control offered precise, proportional adjustment, allowing for fine-tuning of the boat’s trim. The transition from Lenco to Bennett felt less like a compromise and more like an upgrade. There were no unexpected behaviors or calibration issues; the system simply worked as advertised, providing a smoother, more stable ride with improved fuel efficiency due to better planing angles.

Extended Use & Reliability

Having now logged over 50 hours with the Bennett Trim Tabs Lenco to Conversion Kit, its reliability has become a significant talking point among fellow boaters. The hydraulic actuators show no signs of stiffness or degradation, and the Bennett Hydraulic Power Unit remains a silent workhorse. I’ve intentionally subjected the system to the rigors of regular use, including extended periods at anchor where the tabs remain deployed, and it has consistently delivered.

Cleaning is as simple as wiping down the actuators and the power unit with a damp cloth, and periodically checking the hydraulic fluid level is straightforward. There have been no signs of corrosion on any of the components, a testament to Bennett’s quality manufacturing. Compared to the previous Lenco system, which required attention roughly every 10-15 hours of operation, this conversion kit represents a considerable leap forward in terms of low-maintenance performance.

Breaking Down the Features of Bennett Trim Tabs Lenco to Conversion Kit

Specifications

This kit is designed to convert a Lenco electric trim tab system to a Bennett hydraulic system, leveraging your existing Lenco trim planes. The core of the conversion lies in the custom adapter plates for actuator and trim plane assembly, which are engineered to facilitate a seamless integration without requiring extensive hull modifications. It includes a Bennett Hydraulic Power Unit, a compact and robust unit responsible for generating the hydraulic pressure needed for operation. Two standard actuators are provided, these are the muscle of the system that physically move the trim tabs.

The control interface is a water-resistant Rocker Switch Control, complete with all necessary wiring and hardware for installation. This switch offers intuitive and precise control over the trim tabs. The manufacturer, Bennett Trim Tabs, is a well-respected name in the marine industry, known for producing durable and reliable trim tab systems. The components are finished in a standard black color, which blends well with most boat hardware and aesthetics.

Performance & Functionality

The primary function of the Bennett Trim Tabs Lenco to Conversion Kit is to provide reliable and responsive trim tab control, and in this regard, it excels. The hydraulic actuation offers a smoother, more predictable movement compared to the electric Lenco actuators it replaces. This translates directly to a more stable ride, improved fuel economy by allowing the boat to plane at lower speeds, and better maneuverability in various sea conditions.

The responsiveness of the rocker switch control is a significant strength, allowing for micro-adjustments that can make a substantial difference in boat handling. I found that I could dial in the boat’s trim with a level of precision that was difficult to achieve with the previous system. The only potential area for improvement, if one were to be extremely critical, might be the speed of actuation compared to some high-performance electric systems, but for the vast majority of recreational boating applications, the speed is more than adequate and the hydraulic smoothness is a clear advantage.

Design & Ergonomics

The design philosophy behind this conversion kit is clearly focused on practicality and ease of installation. The custom adapter plates are a prime example, demonstrating clever engineering to bridge the gap between two different system types. The Bennett Hydraulic Power Unit is compact enough to be mounted in a variety of locations, and its overall build quality suggests longevity. The standard actuators are robust and appear well-sealed against the marine environment.

Ergonomically, the rocker switch control is a standout feature. Its simple up/down or in/out action is intuitive, and its water-resistant design means it can be mounted in accessible locations without excessive concern for occasional splashes. The tactile feedback from the switch is positive, confirming each adjustment. The overall aesthetic is functional and understated, fitting seamlessly into most helm configurations.

Durability & Maintenance

Based on my extended testing, the durability of this conversion kit is high. The hydraulic components are inherently robust, and Bennett Trim Tabs has a reputation for building equipment that withstands the harsh marine environment. The actuators are sealed units, designed to resist water intrusion and corrosion.

Maintenance is commendably low. Beyond occasional cleaning and checking the hydraulic fluid level in the power unit, there is very little to concern oneself with. This simplicity is a major advantage, particularly for owners who prefer to spend more time on the water and less time on maintenance. Any potential failure points would likely be related to external damage or a significant lack of basic fluid checks, neither of which are inherent flaws in the product’s design.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Bennett Trim Tabs Lenco to Conversion Kit is designed as a self-contained solution, with the primary “accessory” being the inclusion of all necessary wiring harness and hardware for the rocker switch control. The kit essentially bypasses the need for external accessories as it integrates with your existing Lenco trim planes. While there isn’t direct customization of the kit’s core components like actuators or the power unit (they are designed as integrated parts of the Bennett system), the ability to use your existing trim planes is the key “customization” benefit, adapting the new hydraulic system to your current setup.

Pros and Cons of Bennett Trim Tabs Lenco to Conversion Kit

Who Should Buy Bennett Trim Tabs Lenco to Conversion Kit?

The Bennett Trim Tabs Lenco to Conversion Kit is an ideal solution for boat owners who are currently running a Lenco electric trim tab system and are experiencing issues with their actuators. If your Lenco actuators are failing, becoming unreliable, or if you’re simply looking for a more robust and smoother-operating system without the expense of a complete overhaul, this kit is a strong contender. It is particularly well-suited for those who are comfortable with basic DIY marine maintenance and electrical work, or who have access to a qualified marine technician.

However, this kit is not for someone looking to upgrade from manual trim tabs or those who already have a different brand of hydraulic or electric trim tabs installed. It’s also not for individuals who expect a plug-and-play solution with absolutely no mechanical engagement required. For those who need the absolute latest in high-speed electric actuation or have very specific performance demands that only a full, brand-new system can meet, alternative options might exist, but at a considerably higher cost. A good quality marine sealant and possibly some additional zip ties for wire management are recommended complementary items for a clean installation.

Conclusion on Bennett Trim Tabs Lenco to Conversion Kit

The Bennett Trim Tabs Lenco to Conversion Kit delivers on its promise of providing an economical and effective pathway to upgrade from a Lenco electric trim tab system to a more reliable Bennett hydraulic setup. The thoughtful inclusion of custom adapter plates significantly simplifies the installation process, making it an achievable project for many boaters. The performance improvements, characterized by smoother actuation and more precise control via the water-resistant rocker switch, are immediately noticeable and contribute to a better overall boating experience.

For its price point of $419.99, the value proposition is strong, especially when weighed against the cost of a completely new system. The reliability and durability demonstrated during my extensive testing suggest this kit is a sound investment for any boater seeking to refresh their aging trim tab system. I would readily recommend the Bennett Trim Tabs Lenco to Conversion Kit to any Lenco trim tab user who is facing actuator issues and is looking for a cost-effective, high-quality, and performance-enhancing solution. It’s a practical upgrade that breathes new life into your vessel’s handling.