How important is the trim tab?

[Ryan]

I notice that my 115 Yamaha does not have one, by the looks of the threads and the painted surface it was never installed. It's a new boat and engine, I know I can make the drive and they will prob. order me one but mainly curious of it's function exactly and how much it really does. I notice nothing odd w/o it there. It trolls and idles along nice and straight? Thanks

[Bamaman]

You might want to replace the trim tab. I was thinking it also has zinc in it for corrosion protection.

[cleatus]

How does your boat travel at half or full throttle? The trim tab counter-acts the prop thrust that will make your boat pull left or right. Call your dealer and have him mail one (and the bolt) to you. Make sure that bolt is TIGHT.

[margaritaman]

Trim tab is like your car's front wheel alignment. Your pontoon should track straight without you holding the wheel.

[zoom650]

The tabs are real easy to put on. My Yamaha 200's had them. Being the anode, salt got them after 8 years or so.

[babock]

If you happen to have power steering, you don't need it.