Trim tabs

[rjd]

Hi All,

I have a 1988 230 w/a with what I believe are original Bennett trim tabs that do not work. Does anyone know what size actuators I have? I am considering retrofitting with Lenco electrics. Does anyone have any comments on switching to LEnco vs rebuilding the Bennett system?

Thanks,

Reed

[Seon]

I'm not ignoring your question...I just don't know 

[Tabman]

Reed,


Is the Trim Tab pump making any noise when you try to operate it?

The Bennett system is quite easy to troubleshoot and it will likely be easier and much less expensive to fix the system, and I will be delighted to help.

Here is a link to a video that covers how the system works and basic troubleshooting http://www.bennetttrimtabs.com/videoplayer.php?vID=10

Below you will find troubleshooting you can print and take to the boat.

I would make sure that the ground wire at the pump has clean connections at both ends and all the other electrical connections are in good shape.  Then check out step 3 and step 6.

Let me know what you find.

Tom McGow
Bennett Marine



Fluid: Automatic Transmission Fluid (ATF) any type. Hydraulic Power Unit is self bleeding, running the Trim Tabs up and down 3-4 times will purge air from the system.

Fuse: 12 volt system use 20 amp in-line fuse on positive. (24v & 32v use proportionately smaller)

Red= Port Valve
Green= Starboard Valve
Blue=Motor Forward (pump pressure)
Yellow= Motor Reverse (pump retract)
Black on HPU=Ground
Orange on Helm=Control Positive

Troubleshooting

1.If one side is not operating reverse hydraulic lines on the front of the Hydraulic Power Unit to determine if the malfunction is in HPU or actuator / hydraulic lines. If after reversing the lines symptom shifts to the other side the malfunction may exist in HPU. If the symptom remains on the same side, malfunction may exist with the actuator / hydraulic lines

2. Is the unit receiving a solid 12 volts? Low voltage will some times cause the solenoids to not open preventing the tabs from moving even though the pump motor is running.

3. Conduct the following test:
Remove the wires from the helm control and touch together as follows:

Operation=Reaction
Orange (+), blue, red= Port trim tab down
Orange (+), blue, green=Starboard trim tab down
Orange (+), blue, red, green= Both trim tabs down
Orange (+), yellow, red= Port trim tab up
Orange (+), yellow, green=Starboard trim tab up
Orange (+), yellow, red, green= Both trim tabs up

If the trim tabs function correctly for each wire grouping then the switch is at fault. Also note that any loose or missing screws on the back of the switch (whether a wire is connected there or not) can cause the pump to malfunction.

This test may also be done right at the pump by substituting a "hot lead" for orange. There is usually a connector to the wire harness within a foot or so of the pump. You want to check this connection for corrosion. You may wish to cut the connector off on the pump side and try the test on bare wires.

4. If you suspect corrosion on the wire connector near the pump, cut it out, test as above and reconnect using butt splices.

5. If you conclude the problem is in the pump, contact me. Bennett Trim Tab Systems carry a five year warranty.

6. Check to see if there is a relay in line on the wiring harness near the hydraulic power unit. If there is it is an Interrupter Relay (IR1000). It prevents the system fuse from blowing if you try to actuate one trim tab up and the other down at the same time. After you test as outlined above, try removing the relay from the wiring harness and retest the unit. If it works the IR1000 will need to be replaced. Note: The IR1000 relay is no longer used in current Bennett Trim Tab systems and has been replaced with Lock Out Rocker Switches.

[rjd]

Thanks Guys.

Tom I will do my best to trouble shoot and get back to you. The boat is in another state and I will be there in 2 weeks.

Thanks again.

Reed

[Bruce03]

Reed, I hope you have resolved your Trim Tab issue by now, but if you are like me, you can't get out to the boat regularly and it takes time...

Just to put my two cents in, I had non-operating Bennett Trim tabs on my 1998 3250.  The previous owner had been a bit neglectful  but I've slowly been getting all the bugs out 

I knew nothing about trim tabs including that I needed them.  I really got great service and support from Bennett and despite some very small working area, was able to determine that the wires were corroded (the most common problem).  The whole HPU unit comes out easily and I just rewired everything down there, but not the long harness.  It was a simple thing with a muli-meter to determine if I was getting 12 volts to each connection and whether the pump was working.  It took me a few beers to realize the grounding wire was not connected right down below, and then suddenly, everything worked.

I have to admit that I have not yet been able to get out there and test the TT operation, but I realize that these Bennett units are highly repairable by the average guy, so before you go throwing money it might be worth looking into fixing the old ones.  I got mine working for $20 worth of new wire and I think they will now work.

MJ Thomas at Bennett gave me a lot of personal one to one help to guide me and what Tabman sent you really says it all. 

Bruce

Loose Rules V
1998 3250 Pro-Line 7.4LXI's, B3

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