New look trim tabs to benefit bigger boats

The BXT system features a pair of dual-acting hydraulic power units, each producing 450kg of force. Photo / Supplied

One of the world's leading manufacturers of trim tabs for trailer boats has released a new range aimed specifically at larger vessels.

Bennett's new BXT trim tab system has been designed to suit larger cruisers, military and patrol boats and sport fishing boats in the 12-to 18-metre range.

The BXT system features dual-action, solid stainless steel actuators that hold 4.7mm (7-gauge) stainless steel tabs in position. A pair of dual-acting hydraulic power units, each producing 450kg of force, move precision machined, single or dual-cylinder tab actuators through 75mm of stroke.

In recognition of the harsh marine environment in which they operate, these actuators do not contain any dissimilar metals ( and have no external hoses. The trim tabs also attach to the hull using Bennett's exclusive interlocking hinges.

The Bennett BXT system comes with up to two water-resistant, rocker-style electronic trim tab controls; one for the primary helm and one for a secondary station. The position sensors are also internal so that there are no wires or cables exposed.

Mike Harris, from Bennett's New Zealand distributor, Lighthouse Marine Equipment, says Bennett BXT plug-and-play trim tab systems are easy to fit to new boats and existing craft as the wire lengths are customised toeach boat's specifications.

Bennett's Auto Tab Retractor function, which returns the tabs to the "up" position when the boat's ignition is turned off (to reduce marine growth on exposed actuator shafts), comes as standard with the BXT system. The company's Auto Tab Control is also fully compatible with the BXT system.