180 S
PORTSMAN
8–7
T
RIM
T
ABS
Trim tabs are electrically and hydraulically operated, and are used to regulate the attitude of
the boat while moving. They may also be used to adjust the boat's running angle in adverse seas,
or to compensate for unusual load conditions.
The trim tabs 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 Tab
Trim Tab Switch
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 list-
ing 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 (“bow up” shown above for reference). 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 a plane at the least possible RPMs.
Trim Tab Pump Location
The trim tab pump is located in the aft rigging compartment on the transom. 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. Varia-
tions 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.
BOW DOWN
BOW UP
Summary of Contents for ADVANCE 257
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Page 58: ...180 SPORTSMAN 8 12 LABELS AND LOCATION ...
Page 59: ...180 SPORTSMAN 8 13 LIVEWELL LAYOUT INLET OVERFLOW DRAIN TEE RIGGING PUMP TUBE ...