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Boat Trim Tabs Not Working? Here's the Order We Diagnose Them
5 min read·MaintenanceTrim tabsElectrical
Trim tabs are simple systems with three failure points. Knowing which one is broken before you start throwing parts at it saves real money.
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Bennett (hydraulic) vs. Lenco (electric)
Bennett uses a small hydraulic pump under the helm and hoses to two rams on the transom. Lenco uses electric actuators — no pump, no hoses, but the actuators themselves are sealed motors that fail from corrosion.
Bennett diagnostic order
- Pump runs but no movement → low fluid, leaking ram, or stuck check valve
- Pump doesn't run → switch, fuse, or HPU motor
- One side only → that side's hose or ram
Lenco diagnostic order
- Nothing on either side → fuse at battery + switch ground
- One actuator dead → unplug and bench test with 12V
- Both move slow → corroded actuator internals or undersized wiring drop
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