Bennett Auto Trim Tab Control system

ks65609

ks65609

Member
Aug 30, 2009
342
Ontario Canada
Boat Info
1992 330 Sundancer
Engines
Twin 454 Mercruiser--340hp

V drive inboards
My new (to me) 93 Sea Ray 230 Sundancer is equipped with the Bennett Auto Tab Control System. I am working on getting familiar with the operation of the trim tab system provided by Sea Ray and have not ventured into the Bennett system as of yet. However, when installing my electronics I noticed the fused power supply to the Bennett control unit had been disconnected. I do have the Bennett manuals and everything seems to be in order regarding the installation but before I start connecting wires I would very much prefer some expert input. I have been told not to be concerned with using the Bennett system and just use the trim tab functionality provided by Sea Ray.

Thanks
Ken
 
The ATC is a nifty little set-up. You can still override it if you need to. But, like someone suggested to you, I would recommend getting acquainted and very comfortable with using the tabs the old fashioned way, first.
 
Lazy Daze. Thanks for the response and very good recommendations. All of my prior boats did not require trim tabs and I plan to follow your advice precisely. The on water test I had included a demonstration of how the trim tabs can be used very effectively manually to provide a comfortable and stable ride even through other boat's wakes and passenger movement changes. It was at that time I was given advice very similar to yours regarding the automated system. So steady as she goes for the time being.
Thanks
Ken
 
Ken, Bennett used to have a "trim tab game/tutorial" on their website. Sort of a virtual boat - you would drive it and adjust tabs as you did. It was fun to play with if you have a few down minutes at a computer. I don't know if they still have it, or not.
 
Lazy Daze and Saltydogz. Actually I was on Bennett's web site this morning and also spoke with a customer service rep. I did not see the trim tab tutuorial but will certainly have another look. The individuals I spoke with at Bennett were very helpful and answered my questions very satisfactorily.
I must say this is by far the best forum I have had the pleasure of joining and participating in.
Thank you both very much for your timely responses.
Ken
 
LazyDaze. The trim tab tutorial is still available on Bennett's web site. I find it to be informative and useful.

Thanks for the tip
Ken
 
I bought a bennet ATC this summer for my 97 330 and it is fantastic. The 330 is undertabbed so it can be a pain setting and resetting them as conditions change. The ATC takes care of that. Once I am up on plane I turn the ATC on and forget it. On my boat it is really effective at keeping it level and trimmed nicely.
 
I have the ATC system (older one) on my boat and love it in bad water. I don't use it too much when I'm cruising on relatively flat water unless a lot of people are moving around. Then I will put it on. Great system. In the photo below I have a cut off button that brings the tabs back to up position... I also have the indicator gauges under the helm to visually see where they are at all times....
helm1sm.jpg
 
Creekwood. Thanks for the information. I am receiving a good amount of very good advice which is very much appreciated.

Ken
 
Go Aweigh2452

Thanks for the pic and information. From what I can see it looks like your ATC controller is much the same as mine. Was the cut off button part of the option ? (great idea !). I also quite like the trim indicator guages. I am going to check the Bennett web site for options that may be available for my system.

Ken
 
ks65609 said:
Go Aweigh2452

Thanks for the pic and information. From what I can see it looks like your ATC controller is much the same as mine. Was the cut off button part of the option ?

Ken
Click to expand...

Ken, no it was not. I just put it in the power circuit and they automatically retract when the button is pushed for a second or more. I don't have to keep it depressed. Next time I am in the dash, I'll take a photo of where I installed the switch...
 
Go Aweigh2452 said:
Ken, no it was not. I just put it in the power circuit and they automatically retract when the button is pushed for a second or more. I don't have to keep it depressed. Next time I am in the dash, I'll take a photo of where I installed the switch...
Click to expand...

Bennett does make an Auto Tab Retractor kit. But that's cool that you made your own. :thumbsup:
 
Go Aweigh2452 Thanks. Look forward to seeing the under dash pics. Nice looking installation job !

Lazy Daze--thanks for checking out Bennett. I will have to get the model number of my unit and contact Bennett for availability.

Ken
 
whaler14 said:
I have a 2008 240 sundancer with trim tabs. Does anyone know the make of the trim tabs?
Click to expand...

Should be Bennett. But if you wanted to be sure, check your trim tab manual or look right at the trim pump. I've never looked at mine to see if it says Bennett -- just assuming it does.
 
whaler14 said:
I have a 2008 240 sundancer with trim tabs. Does anyone know the make of the trim tabs?
Click to expand...


When I spoke with Bennett regarding my trim tab questions, they mentioned some of their products were customized for Sea Ray, and recommended contacting Sea Ray with your boat's information to obtain the correct specifications for what was actually installed. Once you have this call Bennett ( I found them to be very helpful) for any further questions you may have.

Ken
 
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