Bennett trim tab actuator replacement

D

Dave H

Member
Member
Joined
Jan 17, 2002
RO Number
7245
Messages
145
My shrink wraper tied straps to the top of my trim tab actuators, now the "Upper Hinge" leaks. They are original 1985 units so I'm going to replace them. Anyone done this job and any helpful hints?

Thanks
Dave H
"Duchess" 1985 ChrisCraft Catalina 425
 
Yes, call Bennett, they are know for great customer support. I have no idea but you may be able to reseal the screw holes. My actuator was leaking through the hull and on Bennett's recommendation I resealed the three screw holes holding the triangular shaped upper part with 3M 5200 and I sealed the rest with silicone sealant. I worked like a charm.
 
Pretty easy job. Unscrew the three screws from the transom and remove the hydraulic line. Uncrew the cylinder cap (what you are calling the hinge piece) from the end of the cylinder and replace the cap with a new readily available end cap. Re-attach the hydraulic line and reseat and tighten the three mounting screws being sure to use plenty of 5200 on the transom mount and holes. Refil the hydraulic reservoir and run the trim tabs up and down 5 or 6 times and the system will automatically bleed itself. Top reservoir.

-Rick

Viking Sport Cruiser 50 FY
"Silver Lining"
 
Bennett's installation instructions say to "apply sealant on the mounting surface of the actuators and around the brass fitting" It doesn't say specifically what type sealant and I agonized over using fast cure 4200 or 5200. There were a lot of different options on the subject. I was afraid of using the 5200 on the actuator mounting surface in case I ever had to remove them, it would be possible but difficult. Bennett said to use the 5200 in the screw holes and any good sealant around the actuator itself. The 5200 would be bullet proof but may be hard to get off if you ever need to. That said you probably won't have to do anything again for another 25 years.
 
Dave H,

My name is Josh and I work in the Client Services Department at Bennett Marine.

Regarding the leak at the upper hinge of your actuator, is the leak eminating from where the 2" cylinder body threads into the upper hinge or is the leak where the pipe nipple threads into the upper hinge on the inside of the transom? Please get back to us with your answer and we'd be happy to help!

We look forward to hearing from you.

Regards,

Josh Berg
Account Manager - Bennett Trim Tabs
550 Jim Moran Boulevard
Deerfield Beach, FL 33442
E-Mail: jbergrb2@gr5tbennetttrimtabs.com
Website: http://www.bennetttrimtabs.com
Phone: (954)-427-1400
 
I installed a few of those. Never had leaks. I use boatlife. I like 5200 or 4200 for glass work or windows or hatches.Boatlife caulk does a very good job. Josh or Oliver are very helpfull. When I start we chat a few times.
 
As always thanks all for the assistance.
Josh the upper hinge is cracked, I sent some pictures to your e-mail.
 
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