SAILFISH 276 DC | BENNETT TRIM TAB MAINTENANCE
Periodically checking the fluid
level in hydraulic systems
• With trim tabs completely retracted,
fluid level should be about 2 inches
from bottom of reservoir (approximate-
ly 22 ounces). To refill, remove Lexan
cover and filler plug located at the front
left hand corner of the reservoir. FILL
WITH ANY TYPE AUTOMATIC TRANS-
MISSION FLUID (ATF) ONLY. Brands or
types of ATF can be mixed. Running
HPU with an excess or lack of fluid will
not cause damage.
Electrical connections
Periodically, check for clean electrical
connections on all components.
Cold temperatures
• Cold temperatures do not affect the
trim tab system. No winterization is
necessary.
Zinc anodes (Saltwater only)
• (SALTWATER ONLY) To deter electrolysis,
a zinc anode should be attached to the
top of each trim tab. Zinc must make
direct contact with stainless steel. Do
not paint zinc. Do not ground trim tabs
to other underwater appendages.
Paint trim tabs to discourage
marine growth
1. Clean surface of all grease, oil, dirt.
2. Apply two coats of epoxy metal primer.
3. Apply two coats of anti-fouling paint.
Actuator, including the piston, may be
painted.
• Unpainted trim tabs may acquire an
orange discoloration. THIS OXIDATION
OF SURFACE CARBON MOLECULES IS
NORMAL. The integrity of the stainless
steel is not affected. Orange coating
can be cleaned off, but may eventually
return. NOTE: This discoloration should
not be confused with the pitting and
corrosion of electrolysis.
Safety information & operation
precautions
• Take immediate action to correct any
malfunction or failure of your trim tabs.
• Occasionally, check for loose or corrod-
ed wiring connections.
• Stepping on the trim tab may cause
damage to the unit, or injury.
• Make sure the HPU (pump) or control
units are mounted in a dry location
to avoid drenching and consequent
failure.
• Leaving the actuator extended when
boat is not in use will NOT cause seal
damage.
• For hydraulic systems, occasionally,
inspect HPU fluid level.
OPERATION PRECAUTIONS
• Do not over-trim, particularly at high
speeds as the bow will dig in and wave
action may cause the boat to veer.
• While underway, do not move one trim
tab significantly farther down than the
other as undesirable listing could occur.
• Use your trim tab helm control with
caution.
• For best maneuverability, trim tabs
should be fully retracted in a following
sea, or when running an inlet.
• Improper use of trim tabs can cause
an accident or injury. Bennett Trim
Tabs have a significant effect on the
operation and versatility of your boat.
No one knows your boat better than
you. The best learning method is to
spend time getting familiar with your
boat’s reaction to the trim tabs. As
your experience with Bennett Trim
Tabs increases, so will your enjoyment.
Always operate your boat with safety
first in mind.
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