Torque Tab

Duke01 · #1 02-22-2022, 04:17 PM

Does anyone have experience using a torque tab on their outboard? I have an old 1980 Merc 200hp Black Max and experience significant steering wheel pull due to the outboard prop rotation. Last year I pulled the zinc trim tab in an effort to turn it to compensate for the prop torque, but it did not appear that it could be rotated, no torque adjustment. I have adjusted the zinc tabs on other outboards. Maybe this one doesn't have an adjustment since it is as old as dirt (?).

I found a torque tab on the TH Marine website. Here is a website link: https://thmarinesupplies.com/product...roduct-reviews

I am concerned about a steering cable failure when cruising and turning - send me into a crazy turn and a lot of trouble.

spareparts · #2 02-22-2022, 07:50 PM

you should be able to adjust your trim tab on the engine. Torque tabs are for engines that run high enough in the water the trim tab isn't doing anything, mostly high performance boats with surfacing props

Duke01 · #3 02-23-2022, 05:46 PM

Yes, you would think so. There does not appear to be any adjustments (for rotating) on the trim tab.

Looks like I was able to upload a modified file (pic) of the bottom of the trim tab.

The portion that protrudes along with the threads goes into a recessed area on the lower unit.

spareparts · #4 02-23-2022, 10:07 PM

Its directly above the trim tab, there's usually a plastic plug in the access hole, come in from the top with a 5/16 or 3/8(depending on the year) allen driver, it takes a long one

Duke01 · #5 02-26-2022, 12:00 PM

Thanks Spare. The mating part on the lower unit must rotate. I will have to take a closer look when I pull the shrink wrap in a month or two.

Duke01 · #6 03-19-2022, 02:55 PM

So, I pulled the trim tab from the outboard (1980 Merc 200) and there is a 6" bolt with 1" of threads that is under the tab next to the bolt that holds the trim tab in place. I removed the 6" bolt (9/16" head), but still see no way to rotate the zinc trim tab. Am I missing something? Perhaps I need to purchase a different zinc anode trim tab so I can rotate it (?). Thanks, Duke

spareparts · #7 03-20-2022, 07:38 AM

the bolt that holds the trim tab in place is the one you adjust the tab with, its the one in teh center of that picture you posted. just position the tab where you want it and tighten the bolt

Duke01 · #8 04-03-2022, 06:28 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by spareparts

the bolt that holds the trim tab in place is the one you adjust the tab with, its the one in teh center of that picture you posted. just position the tab where you want it and tighten the bolt

Closing out this post...I never did see a way to rotate the zinc outboard trim tab. The previous owner had it straight (neutral) too. I ended up taking a grinder to the zinc so I could rotate it. I positioned the tab at approx 45 degrees. Hopefully, that will reduce my steering wheel pull.