Hydraulic trim tabs

[Disturbed]

A few of my local friends here have told me that the Bennett hydraulic tabs are better but a pain to install. My buddy Tyler just installed a set of the Lenco electric tabs and said it was super easy and his ride is completely different. It was a basic install that didn't require a hydraulic fluid cylinder to added and maintained. The price seems somewhat comparable buying them new from what I've seen so far. If anyone gets a verdict on which is truly better or knows the pros and cons, please share. If the hydraulic is a pain but lasts longer without problems, I would rather deal with the install and be happy with the long term results. If one doesn't outlast the other or if there is no performance issues, I would definitely rather take the easy install and put an electric one on.

[Mulv80]

Bennett has some of the best customer service in the boating industry. Tom, aka "Tabman" as he is know on many of the forums is extemely helpful with answering questions not only about choosing the right tabs for the right boat but also when it comes to the install.

I installed my Bennett 10x12 sport tabs in about 3 hours. The install was pretty straight forward. I watched the video a couple of times and took my time and everything came out great. I did alot of research before I chose Bennett. From what I read, Bennett seems to hold up better in saltwater. The Lencos are faster to respond, easier to install but dont hold up well in saltwater. I actually prefer the slower response time of the hydraulic tab, it gives a more gradual adjustment in the boats attitude.

[jasoncooperpcola]

I have done a little research on the tabs and one thing I noticed was the electric guys always point their finger at the hydraulic lines and say "what if they leak" Here is my opinion on that. How often do you hear of a hydraulic steering system leaking and causing a crash? I imagine if it leaks it will be a slow leak and then that comes to maintenance or installation error such as a chafed hose. Hydraulic does seem to be a better option simply because you do not have an electric motor submergred all the time.

[jasoncooperpcola]

This guy is saying they are electric over hydraulic trim tabs. I am lost now........

[RidgeRunner]

Electric over hydraulic describes the Bennett Tabs. The switch on the dash operates the electric motor which turns a pump that sends hydraulic fluid to the hydraulic cylinder mounted at the transom.

Lenco's are pure electro mechanical. I have never seen any hydraulic Lenco's. They have a nylon threaded bolt and nut arrangement inside that gives the electric motor a mechanical advantage.

For $200, you can't buy either one new. It is your call. Either will work, both are well supported by the manufacturer. Bennett is prolly the best but harder to install due to the pump placement.

[jasoncooperpcola]

Waiting on an email about their age. That will determine my offer.

Thanks for the info Ridge. I had a feeling it meant something to do with the switches just was not sure.

[jasoncooperpcola]

They are four years old. The complete setup is there, switches to tabs. Might have to get new hoses due to his V being a center console. $200 may be a little high but the set retails over $500. I still need to find out the size of them. Already a tight area on the transom with the megabracket.

[bgreene]

Originally Posted by RidgeRunner

Electric over hydraulic describes the Bennett Tabs. The switch on the dash operates the electric motor which turns a pump that sends hydraulic fluid to the hydraulic cylinder mounted at the transom.

Lenco's are pure electro mechanical. I have never seen any hydraulic Lenco's. They have a nylon threaded bolt and nut arrangement inside that gives the electric motor a mechanical advantage.

For $200, you can't buy either one new. It is your call. Either will work, both are well supported by the manufacturer. Bennett is prolly the best but harder to install due to the pump placement.

If I can / did it............anyone can !

[jasoncooperpcola]

Got em. I hope I got enough measurements for the install. The only thing i could not get was the electrical harness. It was taped up with the rest of the electrical, console to stern. Boat owner said it was ok to cut the ends so that is what I did. Look like 8/10 x12 tabs. And they work good. They are parting the boat out due to what looks like delamination on the first step from the keel on the starboard side.

[RidgeRunner]

I have had both, never replaced anything on the Bennett Hydraulic although I did have a sticky tab on the Whaler that I sold. Lenco, I have had to replace an actuator due to water intrusion (causing the little electric motor housed inside to rust out and die.) Never had to add any oil to the Bennett pump, never a leak. Same holds true for the pump on all of my Bob's Hydraulic jack plates, just lucky I guess. Install it, fill it with oil and they just work.