Electric Flaps Accessories

Essential Accessories for Electric Flaps:

1. Advanced Control Panels
   • Standard Control Panel: A basic control panel, often with push buttons to raise and lower the flaps independently.
   • Touchscreen Control Panel: More sophisticated panels equipped with a touchscreen and light or digital indicators to show the real-time position of the flaps.
   • Joystick Control: A joystick that allows for more intuitive and precise control of the flaps to adjust both plates simultaneously or asymmetrically.
2. Position Sensors
   These sensors measure the exact position of the flaps underwater and send the information to the control panel. They allow for precise control and provide real-time information on the flaps' position.
3. Replacement or Upgraded Actuators
   Electric actuators are the heart of the flap system. Upgraded, corrosion-resistant versions capable of lifting heavier loads may be available for more robust systems.
   • Long-Travel Actuators: Recommended for larger boats or rough seas, actuators that can adjust the flaps with a greater range of motion.
4. Position Indicators (LED or Digital)
   These devices mounted on the dashboard allow the operator to visualize the exact position of the flaps. LED versions provide a simple light indication, while digital versions offer more detailed information with numbers or graphs.
5. Waterproof Relays and Electrical Housings
   Electric flap systems require relays to prevent electrical surges. Waterproof relay boxes protect electrical connections in harsh marine environments.
   • Electric Management Boxes: Contain the necessary relays and fuses to protect the electrical circuit from overloads.
6. Flap Mounting Kits and Supports
   These kits include plates, hinges, screws, and stainless steel or composite material supports. They ensure the flaps are securely attached to the hull and the installation is durable.
   • Articulating Supports: Specially designed supports to allow better articulation of the flaps, offering more precise movement.
7. Waterproof Wiring and Marine Connectors
   The wiring must be specifically designed to withstand marine environments. Waterproof and corrosion-resistant connectors are essential for safe electrical connections.
   • Reinforced Cables: Available for high-use systems, offering better protection against wear from vibrations and exposure to saltwater.
8. Automatic Trim Correction Devices (Auto-Leveling)
   Some electric flap systems may be equipped with automatic trim correction devices. These adjust the flaps automatically based on the boat's tilt and sea conditions, without pilot intervention.
   • AutoTrim Pro: A popular accessory that automatically adjusts the flaps to maintain optimal trim, offering smoother, more fuel-efficient navigation.
9. Reinforced Material Flaps
   Some flaps are made from specific materials (such as carbon fiber or reinforced alloys) for boats that endure more extreme conditions or high-performance vessels. These flaps are lighter and more durable.
10. Maintenance Accessories and Repair Kits
    These kits include seals, screws, special grease for actuators, and other spare parts to maintain electric flaps and ensure proper functionality.

• Maintenance Kits: Contain everything needed for regular flap system maintenance, such as cleaning actuators and checking electrical connections.

11. Flap Plate Extensions
    Plate extensions can be added for boats that require a larger surface area in contact with the water, providing greater trim control, especially on larger vessels.

Well-Known Brands in Electric Flap Accessories:

• Bennett Marine: Offers a wide range of accessories, including advanced control panels, position sensors, and maintenance kits.
• Lenco Marine: Known for its robust systems, with accessories for easy installation and precise control, such as LED panels and powerful actuators.
• Lectrotab: Provides electric flaps and accessories such as waterproof electrical enclosures and reinforced actuators for harsh marine conditions.

Electric Flap Maintenance and Care:

• Regular Cleaning of Flaps: The flap plates should be cleaned regularly to prevent algae and dirt build-up, which could affect their efficiency.
• Inspection of Electrical Connections: Check cables and connectors for signs of corrosion and ensure relay boxes are well-sealed against moisture.
• Actuator Function Check: Regularly test the actuators to ensure they raise and lower correctly without any unusual sounds or irregular movement