Bennett Trim Tab question

[db]

So the starboard Lenco trim tab is dieing a loud, grinding death, 10 months after the port one died. They are waaay undersized for the boat (2310), so I'm going to switch them out for 9X24 Bennetts.

In making this switch, the actuator may attach to the hull below the waterline. Meaning the hydraulic hose would go through the hull below the water line using the standard actuator (though still within the actuator base, so SHOULD still be water tight).

Is this okay/safe? Under water holes in boats make me nervous...

They do have an actuator with an external hose that can go through the hull above the waterline - looks like Megabyte has this set up.

Is it worth it to get the external hose actuator or go with the standard actuator for this instillation?

I haven't seen the external hose actuactor as part of a package, only a stand alone option.

Any advise is appreciated!

Doug

 

[DaleH]

In making this switch, the actuator may attach to the hull below the waterline. Is this okay/safe? Under water holes in boats make me nervous ...

I don't get it, see picture of my 2520 below, the top actuator mount is well above the waterline. Note Bennett makes different height/length actuators, so maybe ... for some unknown reason .. you need taller ones ... ???

Is it worth it to get the external hose actuator or go with the standard actuator for this instillation? I haven't seen the external hose actuator as part of a package, only a stand alone option.

Yes, they make ones where the hydraulic hose comes out the side of the actuator mount that affixes to the hull and can be routed pretty much where or how you ever need it.

Regardless, use 'best practices' with any hull penetration on a cored boat ... drill over-size,wet out with thin epoxy and once kicked, fill with thickened epoxy, then drill for you needed size thru-hole.

 

[warthog5]

The do make actuators in different lengths also. If I'm not mistaken..... There are 3 different lengths available.

I have exchanged them in the past before for a different length.

 

[db]

Thanks for the replys. I noticed on their web site that Bennett will trade out the actuators at no cost if needed.
My concern was moving the actuator closer to centerline on the deep V would move the mounting location down a couple of inches. I forgot to measure this over the weekend when I measured for the widest span I could use. Can't rememeber anything if it's not written down any more. Very annoying!

And I will definately seal all holes as Dale describes.