Grady-White Boats EXPRESS 265, Owner'S Manual

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265 E
XPRESS
8–7
T
RIM
T
ABS
Trim tabs are electrically and hydraulically operated and are used to regulate the attitude of
the boat while moving. They may also be used to adjust the boat's running angle in adverse seas or
to compensate for unusual load conditions.
The trim tabs are operated by a two-rocker switch and will aid in trimming the boat fore and
aft for a smoother ride. Trim tabs can improve the ride of your boat by adjusting where the water
is hitting the keel line. In a slight chop, the waves may be hitting the keel of your boat around the
helm area causing an uncomfortable ride. By adjusting the trim tabs and lowering the bow the
waves will hit the keel at a more forward point softening the ride. Experimenting with trim tabs in
various sea conditions will help you determine the best position under different load conditions.
Trim Tab Trim Tab Switch
Trim tabs are also useful in correcting a port or starboard running list. If the boat is listing to
the port side press the starboard trim tab switch toward "bow down" (“bow up” shown above for
reference). Press the port trim tab switch toward "bow down" to correct a starboard list. This will
lower the bow by pulling the higher side to a level position. If your bow is already in a low posi-
tion you may correct a listing condition by pressing the trim tab switch toward "bow up". This will
cause the low side to rise and level the boat, improving the running angle.
Trim tabs in the extreme "bow up" positions will have no effect on the boat's ride. Trim tabs in
the extreme "bow down" position will cause the boat to come on plane with minimum bow rise.
Unless you are operating at low speeds or with considerable cockpit weight you will likely want
to raise the tabs slightly when underway in order to avoid "plowing" water. With the tabs in the
"bow down" position you will be able to maintain a plane at the least possible RPMs.
T
RIM
T
AB
P
UMP
L
OCATION
The pump is located in the starboard V-berth storage compartment. The hydraulic fluid should
be checked on a seasonal basis.
N O T I C E
Most drive units are equipped with an adjustable rudder trim tab. This trim tab
should be adjusted to balance the steering at the speed you regularly travel. Variations
in speed, boat load or changes in the drive unit trim will cause the steering to pull in one
direction. If the boat pulls to the left, adjust the trim tab to the left and vice-versa.
BOW DOWN
BOW UP