Actuators

Trim Tab Actuators 

Trim tabs are a must-have boating accessory when it comes to performance on the water. Here at NuWave Marine, we carry a wide range of tabs, as well as other essential components.  

On this page, find a range of the best trim tab actuators, which are key to moving tabs into and out of position. Find Bennett marine actuators, Lenco marine actuators, and more! 

You can also rely on us for the following: 

• Trim tab conversion kits 
• Mounting brackets 
• Pump unit covers 
• Trim tab replacement planes 
• Leveling controls 

What Is a Trim Tab Actuator? 

Actuators are one of many trim tab parts you’ll need to keep your boat functioning efficiently.  

The trim tab actuator connects to a metal mounting plate, which can be raised or lowered as needed to ensure a smooth ride through the water. Actuators are what move the trim tabs into and out of position, which can correct the angle of the boat in certain circumstances.  

For instance, a boat may drift to one side or the other if weight is not distributed evenly, which is known as listing. Because it’s not always possible to ensure the proper distribution of weight on a boat, particularly when you’re carrying passengers, trim tabs can correct weight-related listing.  

Weather conditions that contribute to listing, such as wind, can also be addressed using trim tabs.  

These accessories also offer benefits in other situations. Boats can meet resistance when accelerating or decelerating due to drag. With trim tabs, a watercraft can transition from one speed setting to another without experiencing inefficiency.  

Along with creating a smoother, more enjoyable ride, trim tabs can also help you save money on fuel by reducing drag.  

How Does a Trim Tab Actuator Work? 

With trim tabs, actuators can receive power in two ways. Some actuators are powered by electricity, which moves the tabs up and down when the control panel is engaged by the boat operator. Some older models use hydraulic power instead, which requires a system of hydraulic cylinders. There are also models that use both electric and hydraulic power.  

With hydraulic and hybrid tabs, hydraulic fluid plays a key role in the process. As the actuators receive the hydraulic fluid, the tabs lower into the water to correct any issues, such as weight distribution deficiencies or adverse weather conditions.  

Similarly, the tabs retract when hydraulic fluid flows out of the actuator.  

Other trim tab components include: 

• Hinged plates usually made from aluminum or stainless steel 
• Control box (electric actuators) 
• Hydraulic reserve (electric/hydraulic hybrid systems) 
• Wiring harness 
• Operator switch 

Trim tabs with electric actuators are usually easier to install, as they don’t require the hoses and trim tab pumps that are necessary with hydraulic models. They can also require less maintenance since there will be fewer parts that could potentially fail.  

If you currently have a hydraulic model installed on your boat, it’s worth considering trim tab actuator replacement to upgrade the system.  

Can You Run a Boat Without a Trim Tab? 

The benefits of trim tabs can’t be overstated. In fact, most boat owners find these accessories quite useful when it comes to performance.  

By installing trim tabs on your watercraft, you can look forward to the following advantages: 

• Lower chance of listing 
• Greater visibility when getting on plane 
• Improved efficiency 
• Easier to transition from one speed to the next 
• Reduced porpoising 

Trim tabs offer these benefits regardless of the type of vessel you’re operating. For instance, boats with outboard motors can use the power trim control to adjust the angle of the bow and stern as the boat coasts along the water. However, power trim controls can’t do much about listing, which is precisely where trim tabs come in handy.  

Find Trim Tab Parts and Accessories at NuWave Marine 

Whether you’re seeking a boat actuator, Bennett trims tab parts, Lenco trim tab parts, or are in need of new trim tab controls, boaters can find just what they’re searching for at NuWave Marine. Please contact us today for more information on our extensive inventory.