Trim Tabs & Accessories

Trim tabs are adjustable plates mounted at the transom of a boat that let the operator fine-tune the hull's running attitude. They angle downward into the water when activated, which pushes the stern upward and lowers the bow. That simple change in leverage can level a boat that is listing from uneven passenger or fuel loads, shorten the time it takes to get on plane, and keep the bow from blocking the view ahead.

Why Trim Tabs Matter

A properly set boat rides on the most efficient part of its hull. Trim tabs help reduce bow rise, listing and hull pounding in chop, and can improve fuel efficiency by minimizing drag and wasted RPMs. Even high-speed performance boats benefit, since tabs let the boat settle back down when it gets a little out of shape. The result is a drier, smoother and more comfortable ride for everyone on board.

Electric, Hydraulic and Automatic Systems

The first decision when shopping is the type of system. Electric actuators are generally simpler to install, since they need wiring rather than fluid lines and a pump, and are popular on mid-sized center consoles and runabouts. Hydraulic systems are a long-standing choice for larger vessels and offer a wide range of tab sizes. Self-leveling and automatic tabs suit smaller boats and those who prefer a set-it-and-forget-it approach.

Beyond the tabs themselves, this category includes the accessories that make a system work well: actuators, switch kits, position indicators, helm controls, hydraulic power units, and automatic leveling controls.

Key Considerations When Shopping

• Sizing: A common guideline is at least one inch of tab span per foot of boat length , adjusted for boat weight, transom shape and available mounting space.
• Materials: Look for corrosion-resistant stainless steel planes and sealed actuators, especially for saltwater use.
• Controls: Simple rocker switches work well, while LED position indicators and automatic leveling add convenience.
• Compatibility: When replacing parts, match the actuator, pump or switch to your existing system.

Top Trim Tab Brands

Bennett is the name most associated with the category. Charles Bennett invented the first adjustable trim tab system in 1960, and the company offers both hydraulic trim tab systems and BOLT electric trim tab systems.

Lenco is known for electric actuator technology that is fast, strong, and free of hydraulic pumps and lines. Its kits come in standard, edge mount, limited space and high performance configurations.

Nauticus is notable for Smart Tabs. These are completely automatic, requiring no operator adjustment underway, and self-adjust according to how you load and maneuver your boat.

Lectrotab builds electromechanical systems for boats from 17 to 60 feet. Its tabs use corrosion-resistant 12 gauge 304 stainless steel, and the actuator sits in a permanently sealed non-metallic housing. It also offers one-touch LED controls and automatic leveling upgrades.

Boat Leveler Co. rounds out the selection with trim tab products and controls for boaters looking to upgrade or maintain an existing setup.