Running Trim Tab Cables on a 180?

[Recoil Rob]

I thought the tough part was going to be getting the tabs/actuators on the transom but now it's time to get those cables up to the console. I'm using Lectratabs so they are just 4 strand cables with no plugs. I see that most of the cables from the battery area go up a very tight looking tunnel on the starboard side, is this the only option?

I don't suppose the center tunnel where the gas lines come from are an option?


thanks,

Rob

 

[seasick]

The rigging tube that has wires and motor cables is the correct place to run the cables.
You may nee to use an electricians 'fish tape'. See if you can borrow one. Snake from the rear up to the access at the helm using the rigging tube.. Then tie on a drag line (a small diameter rope/cord) and pull t back aft. Undo the fish tape and tie and tape the cables to the rope. Now pull the rope (and the wires) at the helm opening.
It shouldn't be too tough for just a few wires.
The other tube to the tank could be used for the wires as long as there is a way to get to the helm from the tank. That usually means following the fuel fill line and making a turn to the helm somewhere
One trick for the future is to tie another rope along with the wires and pull both. Leave the second rope in the tube with extra hanging out at the helm and aft bilge in case in the future you need to pull another cable.

 

[Recoil Rob]

Thanks for that info. I actually have an old transducer that's being removed, I figure I'll tie 4 drags lines and pull from the console to the transom, 1 for each trim tab, 1 for the new transducer and a spare.

Thanks again.

 

[DennisG01]

It'd be easier to use one drag line and pull them all together at the same time. Spray some silcone spray on the bundle as someone else pulls them through. Use plenty of tape at the front end to make it smooth.

 

[seasick]

It'd be easier to use one drag line and pull them all together at the same time. Spray some silcone spray on the bundle as someone else pulls them through. Use plenty of tape at the front end to make it smooth.

Soapy water (dishwasher soap) works too. The up side of using soap is that whatever residue is left when it gets wet, will help clean the bilge

I also suggest you pull all at the same time. One more hint. Don't pull the transducer cable from the connector taped to the drag line. Rather fold over about 2 feet of the cable and tie and tape the drag line at that loop. Then tape the connector to the bundle. It won't hang up as easily that way.