3 6 0 E
X P R E S S
8–21
Trim Tabs
Trim tabs are electrically and hydraulically operated. The trim tab system consist of a
hydraulic pump, a two-rocker switch panel, a trim tab position indicator panel, and an auto-
retract device. The rocker switch controls the pump which lowers and raises the trim tabs. The
indicator panel keeps you constantly aware of the trim tab’s position. The auto-retract device
causes the pump to raise the tabs every time the ignition switch is turned off
Trim tabs are used to regulate the attitude of the boat while moving. They are operated by a
two-rocker switch panel 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 and soften the ride. Experimenting with trim tabs in
various sea conditions will help you determine the best positions for your boat under different
load conditions.
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”. Press the port trim tab
switch toward “bow down” to correct a starboard list. This will tend to lower the bow by
pulling the higher side to a level position. If your bow is already in a low position, 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. The running angle will also gradually improve.
The switches are marked “bow down” only. 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 to
avoid “plowing” water. With the tabs in the “bow down” position, you will be able to maintain
the boat on a plane at the least possible RPMs.
See
“12 Volt DC Trim Tab Diagram” on page 8–50
for system wiring detial.
Trim Tab Pump Location
The 360 Express trim tab pump is located on the port hull side, and is accessed through the
wall panel in the aft berth 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 which you travel most frequently. 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.
