Trim

[bassdocktor]

I just bought a new Triton TR186 with a Merc 150 XR6 about 2 weeks ago. My dad and I have taken it out few times since buying it. Unfortunately neither he nor I have ever really been around a boats with power trim. They were usually all tiller models or if they weren't they were friend's ocean boats. Although I've learned alot through on the water experience in the last two weeks I was hoping someone could give me a better idea how far to trim the engine up once the boat is on plane.

Thanks

Russ

[gamblerOH]

If your jack plate is adjusted right you should only have to trim it up about 3/4 of the way(it wont let you overtrim if its in gear) or until your water pressure goes below 15lbs.You will know when its there because the engine will run smooth and the water spray will be very near the back of the boat. I have always heard if the boat has a "rooster tail' that is taller than the engine cowling the engine is either trimmed up too far or the jackplate is too high.If you do overtrim the engine all that will happen is it will begin to come out of the water and your rpm's will start going up fast, just let off and trim it back down a bit and youre there,

[digdug]

Here is are a couple of good rules of thumb for trim.

1. Once your up on plane trim the motor up as far as you can until, until porpusing starts.  You need to take it carefully until you get the hang of how much trim your boat needs.

2. Once your up on plane trim the motor up as far as you can, until the motor is just shy, say 200 rpms, of red line.  Once again you need to take it carefully until you get the feel of your boat.

[dotz]

Generally I will trim my boat until I have 15 psi of water pressure. If I go below that I am throwing a big rooster tail and looking pretty but I will loose 1-2 mph on top end. Seat time is really the best advice I can give you. Just take it easy and don't be scared to play around with it. Have fun.

[BillyBob]

bassdoc,

Pay attention to Gambler. A new Triton ain't no lead sled. He's right about your rooster tail...no higher than the engine cowl or somthing aint set up right.  Always start with trim down as far as it goes,once on plane start trim up, alittle at a time till you start losing speed or something feels wrong. If its chide walking your probably not setup. If its bobbing up and down trim is too high. Don't go by H2O pressure you may have a low water intake and it won't show.

 My 20X is flat passin almost everybody with 3/8 trim up, and shes usually loaded to the gills! Do'nt fret... a little drive time is mainly what you need.

[bassdocktor]

Hey thanks alot guys. I've been out on the boat a few times and tried all of your advice. I think I've almost found the right spot. When it's trimmed too high it sure does bounce up and down. Thanks for the advice.