[kenkochiss]

Hi -

Attachment included.

I'm a proud first boat owner of a 1996 Mariah Talari 215. 2 previous owners who kept the boat in mint shape. I'm figuring most things out, but need help on this one.

Is there any instruction out there or can anyone guide me through how to use the joystick?

I don't know whether the words on the joystick panel are describing the action of the Tab (s) or the effect of moving them .

When do I go Port down, how long do I hold it, do I need to eventually go port up to move it back, what am I moving...the trim tabs?

Sorry for all the "non-boater" questions, but I'd ready like to use them correctly.

Thanks in advance! Ken

[ShabahZ280]

I don't know that I've ever seen that joystick controller setup before on a Mariah! It's definitely a tab controller. The best way you can test how it responds is when you're underway on the water.

Typically the commands on the switch are the action you'll receive when pushing it that way. For example, if you wanted to put your port bow down, it will usually use your starboard trim tab, unless the installer wired them in reverse, which can happen occasionally too; Some people choose to wire them backwards. I won't confuse you with why people do this, but the best way to figure things out is while you're up on plane on the water.

There's not a lot of literature on the Bennett joystick controller itself, but you can read up on how tabs and their controllers work on their website Why Do I Need Trim Tabs? | Bennett Marine

They will take some getting used to, and can sometimes make the boat give you a literally scary ride if you're not careful and adjust them accordingly. My advice is to read up as much as you can, and then get some seat time playing with them. The only problem is, with tabs, you'll never be able to just "set it and forget it". They change around the handling characteristics of the boat, based on water conditions, weight balance, etc so you'll find yourself continuously messing with them to get that perfect balance out the boat every time you're underway.

[kenkochiss]

Thanks Chris! I'll getter out and try...I've watched a few videos on trim tabs since my post. I'll let you know...thanks again! Ken