What is the effect of using trim tabs on an outboard boat?

Using trim tabs on an outboard boat is primarily designed to level the boat and keep it running straight. Trim tabs are adjustable surfaces mounted on the transom of the boat that can be raised or lowered to adjust the boat's angle relative to the water.

When you deploy the trim tabs downward, they create lift on that side of the boat, which can counteract the natural list (tilt) that may occur due to weight distribution or external factors like wind and waves. This adjustment helps keep the boat level, which enhances both stability and performance. A level boat is less likely to porpoise—where the bow rises and falls on the water—and allows the boat to maintain a straight course more easily.

Incorporating trim tabs can also lead to improved fuel efficiency, as a level hull operates more efficiently in the water. Thus, by using trim tabs effectively, boat operators can enhance their overall control and comfort while navigating.