Self-Leveling trim tabs for 23 boat

Q: Are trim tabs worth it on a small boat?

With improved fuel consumption and less stress on your boats hull and motor, trim tabs have the ability to pay for themselves on a boat that is used often. Not only do trim tabs provide potential cost savings but they also make a boat more enjoyable to handle and ride.

1 Year Warranty

Table of Contents Show

Designed for boats up to 20 feet.
How big of trim tabs do I need?
What do self leveling trim tabs do?
Are automatic trim tabs any good?
Are trim tabs worth it on a small boat?

Please note these are mainly references to the M120 (MGE115) unit, but they basically apply to both units in general terms).

In the past, trim tabs were most often found on cabin cruisers and sport- fishers over 7m, today they have become common equipment on boats 5m- 6.5m. You see trim tabs on everything from open tiller steer to bow riders, ski boats, cabin and hardtops. Many still believe that trim tabs are less important on smaller boats, but, in fact, the opposite is true. Trim tabs improve the ride of even the largest planing hulls, but on a smaller boat you will notice the difference much more. For instance bigger boats are much less affected by weight distribution than smaller boats. Bennett’s M120 Sport Tabs series are ideal for trailer boats in the 17’ - 23’ range. Their unique Batwing design provides 30% more lift than conventional trim tabs and their space-saving design ensures easy installation on virtually any transom. This kit includes two stainless steel trim tabs, two actuators, a hydraulic power unit, all necessary wiring,
tubing, hardware, installation video and is completed with an auto tab retractor.
• Trim Tab Size: 10” x 10” - MGE120
• Trim Tab Size: 10” x 12” - MGE115
Benefits include:
• Get you up on plane quickly
• Allow you to plane at speeds lower than designed planing speed
• Adjust the boat’s attitude for changes in speed, sea conditions and shifting weight
• Correct boat’s side lean (listing) on either side of the boat
• Less drag and engine labouring, which translate into increased performance, greater speed, and reduced fuel consumption
• Reduced pounding, which means greater comfort
• Greater visibility, which increase safety

ECONOMY VERSION, TYPE SLT
This is similar to the M120 except that it does not have hydraulic
actuators. It has special drive cylinders that are spring actuated and
AUTOMATICALLY respond to your boat speed, levelling the boat. No
control, pump, hose or wiring. Whilst the M120 works for 17-23’ boats
this unit works on boats 14-20’. It is far, far easier to install as well,
generally under an hour.
What’s included:
• 14 Gauge stainless steel tabs x 2
• Strong durable actuators x 2
• All stainless steel hardware no plastic!
• Lifetime warranty on actuators

Home / Product Catalog / Trim Tab Systems / Self-Leveling Tabs

Designed for boats up to 20 feet.

For boats over 20 feet check out either our electric, classic or sport hydraulic systems.

Features & Benefits

A simple, durable, and affordable trimming solution for smaller boats. Quick and easy installation with nothing to do inside the boat – just mount the actuators and trim tabs on the transom and enjoy the benefits.

Features Include:

Three mounting options to easily change lift
Plane at lower speeds
Improve fuel efficiency
Eliminate porpoising and chine walking
Improve your hole shot
Reduce engine laboring and improve fuel efficiency

Items Included in Sets

(2) 14 gauge stainless steel tabs with
Bennett’s exclusive interlocking hinge
(2) Strong, durable actuators
All stainless steel hardware – no plastic!

Set Options & Tab Sizes

SLT6 6″ x 8″ Tabs (Recommended for boats up to 16′)
SLT10 10″ x 10″ Tabs (Recommended for boats 17′-20′)

Product Specs

Recommended Boat Types

Ribs
Skiffs
Runabouts

Videos & Articles

Installation Manuals & Owners Docs

To find documentation for this product, visit our Owner/Install Manual Library and enter in the part number or product name in the search bar. Here you’ll be able to locate general product information, wiring schematics, installation drilling templates etc.

Replacement Parts

Our systems are built to last, but let’s face it, the marine environment is harsh. When you need a replacement part, we want to make it as easy as possible to get you back on the water, and we’re here to help!

Give us a call at (954) 427-1400 for assistance, browse Common Replacement Parts, check out our Tech Help & Support section, or send us a message after hours.

High Resolution Images

Are you a reseller needing a high resolution image of this product? Simply visit our Image Database and search for the part number or product name.

Prop65 Labeling

The items on this list have been identified as subject to California Prop 65 Warnings. Contact Bennett Marine for questions about specific items as needed.

How big of trim tabs do I need?

General guidelines for choosing a trim tab size As a general rule for boats with max speeds of 40MPH, choose at least one inch of trim tab span (per side) for every foot of boat length. For example, a 22′ boat would use a 24”x9”.

What do self leveling trim tabs do?

Product Description. The SLT reacts instantly to boat speed and water pressure by adding trim when it's needed. At slower speeds, when the boat is trying to get on plane, the actuators hold the trim tabs down, which lifts the stern and simultaneously puts the boat at planing attitude.

Are automatic trim tabs any good?

Automatic tabs may work better on smaller boats such as inflatables, boats with no room for a hydraulic pump or for the budget-conscious boater. Automatic tabs are a good choice for small fast boats, boats that tow tubes or other types of sport boats that change speed and direction frequently.

Are trim tabs worth it on a small boat?

With improved fuel consumption and less stress on your boat's hull and motor, trim tabs have the ability to pay for themselves on a boat that is used often. Not only do trim tabs provide potential cost savings but they also make a boat more enjoyable to handle and ride.