Grady-White Tournament 307, User Manual

Page: 61 / 88

3 0 7 T
O U R N A M E N T
8–9
T
RIM
T
ABS
Trim tabs are electrically and hydraulically operated. The trim tab system consists of trim tab
planes attached to the hull, 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. By operating the two-
rocker switch panel, the boat may be trimmed 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.
The switches are marked “bow down” only. Trim tabs in the extreme 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 a plane at
the least possible RPMs.
Trim Tab Pump Location
The trim tab pump is located in the starboard console rigging area. The hydraulic fluid levels
should be checked on an annual basis or anytime there is evidence of a leak.
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.