Bennett BOLT Adjustable Actuator Kit (Less Tabs, No Relay Module)
Bennett BOLT Adjustable Actuator Kit (Less Tabs, No Relay Module) — Product description
The Bennett BOLT Adjustable Actuator Kit (MPN BOLTBLTADJ) is Bennett Marine's complete pair of BOLT electric trim tab actuators with both Bennett-style AND universal hinge hardware - the kit Bennett sells specifically for owners who already have trim tabs installed (any major brand or aftermarket trim tab) but need to convert from older hydraulic actuators to Bennett's modern electric BOLT actuators, or add a helm control with trim tab position indicators that requires the BOLT actuator's electronic position feedback. The kit includes everything you need for the actuator side of the install: two 12V BOLT electric adjustable upper hinge actuators (the linear actuators that physically push and pull the trim tabs), 6-foot cables with waterproof connectors pre-installed on each actuator, two 20-foot wire harnesses with waterproof connectors that connect the actuators to your boat's wiring, two sets of Bennett-style upper and lower hinges (for boats with existing Bennett trim tabs), AND two sets of universal-style upper and lower hinges (for boats with existing trim tabs that follow the common bolt pattern compatible with Bennett's universal hinge - covers most non-Bennett aftermarket tabs), all the mounting hardware needed, and the installation manual. What's NOT included: the trim tabs themselves (the kit assumes you have existing trim tabs to reuse) and the BOLT relay module / helm control panel (sold separately - select based on whether you want simple manual control or full position-indicator auto-leveling control). The BOLT actuator's defining advantage over older hydraulic trim tab systems is electric instant-response operation with no hydraulic fluid to leak, no hydraulic pump to fail, and dramatically simpler install (just two waterproof electrical connections per actuator). Adjustable upper hinge design lets the actuator extension be matched to your existing trim tab geometry without requiring exact tab placement - useful when you're retrofitting BOLT actuators onto a different brand of trim tabs that may not bolt up to an exact specification.
The Bennett BOLT Adjustable Actuator Kit (BOLTBLTADJ) is Bennett Marine's complete pair of BOLT electric trim tab actuators sold with universal hinge hardware - the kit specifically configured for owners who already have trim tabs installed on the boat and need to upgrade just the actuator portion of the trim tab system to Bennett's modern BOLT electric platform.
Why BOLT actuators are the modern replacement for older trim tab systems. Bennett's traditional trim tab actuators are hydraulic cylinders driven by a hydraulic pump (typically the M120 or M180 hydraulic power unit) with hydraulic hoses running from the pump to each actuator. The hydraulic system has been the Bennett standard since the 1960s and is highly reliable when properly maintained, but it has install and maintenance complexity that the BOLT electric platform eliminates: no hydraulic fluid to leak (the most common Bennett service complaint over 50+ years), no hydraulic pump to mount and wire (the BOLT actuators are self-contained), no hydraulic hoses to route through the boat (just waterproof electrical cables), and significantly faster install (typical full BOLT install is one day vs 2-3 days for a comparable hydraulic install). The BOLT actuator generation has been in the market long enough now to confirm field reliability is excellent.
What this kit includes - the complete actuator-side install. Two 12V BOLT adjustable upper hinge actuators with 6-foot factory cables and waterproof connectors pre-installed. Two 20-foot wire harnesses with matching waterproof connectors that connect the actuator cables to your boat's helm wiring. Two sets of Bennett-style upper and lower hinges for boats with existing Bennett trim tabs. Two sets of universal-style upper and lower hinges for boats with existing trim tabs that follow the common universal bolt pattern. All the mounting hardware (bolts, washers, brackets) needed for both hinge style options. Installation manual with step-by-step instructions for both hinge configurations.
What this kit does NOT include. Trim tabs themselves - the kit assumes you have existing trim tabs you're keeping. This is intentional: if you need new tabs too, Bennett sells complete kits that bundle the BOLT actuators with new trim tab blades. The BOLT relay module / helm control panel - sold separately so you can pick the control configuration that matches your needs. Three main control options: (1) Basic rocker switch control - simplest install, manual control only, no position indication. (2) Position-indicator control - shows current tab position on a helm indicator, useful for repeating known good trim settings. (3) Auto-leveling control - the BOLT system can self-level the boat based on accelerometer feedback for hands-off operation. Pick the control option based on use case and budget, and order it separately to match this actuator kit.
The dual hinge configuration. The kit includes BOTH Bennett-style and universal-style hinge sets, which solves a common installer problem: you may not know exactly which hinge style fits your existing trim tabs until you remove the old actuators and look at the existing hinge geometry. If your existing tabs are Bennett, use the Bennett-style hinges (they bolt up to the existing tab mounting points). If your existing tabs follow the universal bolt pattern (most aftermarket trim tabs do), use the universal-style hinges. Having both sets in the kit eliminates the wrong-hinge problem and the delay/re-order cycle that would otherwise hit if you ordered the wrong configuration. Use whichever set fits, store the other set as spare for a future install or boat sale.
Adjustable upper hinge design. The 'adjustable' in the kit name refers to the upper hinge connection - the geometry between the actuator's upper attachment point and the boat-side mounting bracket can be adjusted to accommodate slight differences in trim tab placement geometry. This matters when you're retrofitting BOLT actuators onto a different brand of trim tabs that may not be positioned exactly where Bennett actuators would normally mount. The adjustable hinge gives you 1-2 inches of position flexibility to dial in the geometry without requiring exact tab placement.
Install considerations. Realistic install time for the kit on a typical boat: 2-4 hours for a competent DIY install if you're replacing existing actuators and reusing the existing tabs. Most of the install is removing the old hydraulic actuators (drain fluid, disconnect hoses, unbolt) and installing the new BOLT actuators (bolt up new hinges, mount actuators, route cables). Connect the 6-foot actuator cables to the 20-foot harnesses via the waterproof connectors. Route the harnesses through the boat to your helm location. Connect to the BOLT relay module (sold separately). Test operation by pressing the helm switch and verifying full tab travel. The waterproof Plug & Play connectors mean no wire splicing or soldering required.
Compatibility note - what existing tabs does this work with. The Bennett-style hinges work with Bennett trim tabs (Bennett's own bolt pattern). The universal-style hinges work with most other major-brand trim tabs that use the common universal upper hinge bolt pattern - this covers the majority of aftermarket and other-brand trim tabs. If your existing trim tabs use a proprietary non-universal hinge pattern from a brand that uses unique hardware, the universal hinges may not fit. Look at your existing upper hinge bolt pattern and confirm compatibility before ordering. For unusual installations, Bennett technical support can confirm whether the universal hinge fits your specific tabs.
What about the relay module - what do I need to buy separately? The BOLT actuator system requires a BOLT relay module (the electronic controller that drives the actuators based on helm switch input) plus a helm control panel/switch. Bennett sells multiple variants: BOLTHCRMK (basic helm control + relay module with position indicators), BOLT-AOC (auto-orbit auto-leveling control), and others. Order the helm control that matches your install vision. Budget another $400-800 for the appropriate relay module and helm control. Without the relay module, the actuators have no controller to drive them.
BOLT actuator service life. Bennett's BOLT actuator generation has been in production long enough to show solid field reliability. Typical service life under normal recreational use is 7-12 years, with some owners reporting longer in lighter-use scenarios. The waterproof Plug & Play connectors eliminate the corroded-connection failures that plagued older trim tab systems. The electric ballscrew design has no hydraulic fluid to leak or seals to fail. Most owners report fit-and-forget operation through the typical boat ownership cycle.
Made by Bennett Marine. Bennett has been the world leader in trim tab technology since 1960 - the oldest and most established trim tab brand on the market. The BOLT line represents Bennett's modernization of their core trim tab platform from hydraulic to electric while maintaining the engineering quality and field reliability that built the Bennett reputation. Service support and warranty handling go through Bennett's well-established US-based service organization with strong dealer network coverage.
Warranty. Standard Bennett Marine product warranty - check the current warranty terms on the Bennett Marine website at purchase. Register the product for warranty activation. Bennett warranty service is well-established with strong customer service reputation.
Key Features
- Bennett Marine BOLT Adjustable Actuator Kit - pair of 12V electric trim tab actuators for retrofitting existing trim tabs to the modern BOLT electric platform
- Replaces older hydraulic trim tab actuators with electric ballscrew design - no hydraulic fluid, no pump, no hoses, dramatically simpler maintenance
- Adjustable upper hinge accommodates 1-2 inches of position flexibility - retrofit onto trim tabs with slightly different geometry than factory Bennett placement
- Includes BOTH Bennett-style hinges AND universal-style hinges - fits Bennett tabs and most major-brand aftermarket trim tabs without ordering wrong-fit configuration
- Two 6-foot actuator cables with waterproof Plug & Play connectors pre-installed - no wire splicing or soldering required at the actuator end
- Two 20-foot wire harnesses with matching waterproof connectors - sufficient length for most actuator-to-helm cable runs on boats up to 32 ft
- Self-contained electric actuators - no external pump, no hydraulic fluid reservoir, no fluid leaks
- Bennett Marine reliability - oldest and most established trim tab brand on the market (since 1960) with established US service support
- Trim tabs NOT included - kit assumes you have existing trim tabs you're keeping (if you need new tabs, order Bennett's complete kit with tab blades)
- BOLT relay module / helm control panel NOT included - order separately based on control preference (basic, position-indicator, or auto-leveling)
- Mounting hardware and installation manual included for both Bennett-style and universal-style hinge configurations
- Typical 7-12 year service life under normal recreational use - the electric design eliminates the hydraulic failure modes that plagued older trim tab systems
Why Buy from NVN Marine
- Authorized Bennett Marine reseller, full manufacturer warranty
- NMEA member and ABYC certified, advice from real boat techs
- Same-day shipping before 3 PM ET on in-stock items
- NY headquarters and Fort Lauderdale flagship retail store
Genuine Bennett Marine BOLT Adjustable Actuator Kit (MPN BOLTBLTADJ). Backed by Bennett's standard product warranty. Ships from NVN Marine inventory with order-by-3-PM same-day shipping on this $297.99 actuator upgrade kit (list $393).
Technical specifications
| Title | Bennett BOLT Adjustable Actuator Kit (Less Tabs, Less Relay Module) |
|---|---|
| Brand | Bennett Marine |
| Manufacturer Part Number | BOLTBLTADJ |
| UPC | Bundle SKU - not separately assigned |
| Product Type | Trim tab actuator kit (replacement / upgrade for existing trim tabs) |
| Actuator Type | BOLT electric adjustable upper hinge linear actuator |
| Quantity | Pair (2 actuators) |
| Voltage | 12 VDC |
| Actuator Cable Length | 6 feet (per actuator, factory-installed waterproof connector) |
| Wire Harness Length | 20 feet (per actuator, with matching waterproof connector) |
| Hinge Options Included | Bennett-style upper/lower hinges AND universal-style upper/lower hinges (two complete sets in the kit) |
| Compatibility | Bennett trim tabs (using Bennett-style hinges) and most major-brand aftermarket trim tabs (using universal hinges) |
| Adjustable Hinge | Yes - 1-2 inches of position flexibility for trim tab geometry retrofit |
| Connection Type | Waterproof Plug and Play (no wire splicing or soldering required) |
| What's Included | 2 actuators with cables, 2 wire harnesses, 2 sets of Bennett hinges, 2 sets of universal hinges, mounting hardware, install manual |
| What's NOT Included | Trim tabs, BOLT relay module, helm control panel (all sold separately) |
| Drive Technology | Electric ballscrew (no hydraulic fluid, no external pump) |
| Manufacturer | Bennett Marine - world leader in trim tab technology since 1960 |
| Warranty | Standard Bennett Marine product warranty |
Frequently asked questions
What's included in this kit?
Two 12V BOLT adjustable upper hinge actuators with 6-foot cables and waterproof connectors, two 20-foot wire harnesses with matching connectors, two sets of Bennett-style upper and lower hinges, two sets of universal-style upper and lower hinges, all mounting hardware, and installation manual. Trim tabs themselves and BOLT relay module / helm control panel are NOT included - order those separately based on your specific install needs.
What's NOT included that I need to complete the install?
Two things you must order separately: (1) Trim tabs - the kit assumes you have existing tabs you're keeping. If you need new tabs, order Bennett's complete kit with tab blades bundled. (2) BOLT relay module + helm control panel - the electronic controller that drives the actuators based on switch input. Bennett sells multiple variants: basic helm control with relay module, position-indicator control, or auto-leveling control. Budget $400-800 for the appropriate control package.
Will it work with my existing trim tabs from a different brand?
Probably yes - the kit includes universal-style hinges sized for the common bolt pattern that most major-brand aftermarket trim tabs use. Remove your existing actuators, look at the upper hinge bolt pattern on your existing trim tabs, and confirm it matches the universal hinge in the kit before final install. If your existing tabs use a proprietary non-universal hinge pattern, the universal hinges may not fit - contact Bennett technical support to confirm compatibility for unusual cases.
Why both Bennett-style AND universal hinges in the same kit?
To eliminate the wrong-hinge re-order cycle. You may not know exactly which hinge style fits your existing tabs until you remove the old actuators and inspect the existing geometry. By including both hinge sets, the kit ensures you have the right hinges on hand regardless of what you find when you open up the install. Use whichever set fits, store the other set as spare for a future install or for boat resale value.
How is BOLT different from older Bennett hydraulic actuators?
BOLT is Bennett's modern electric ballscrew actuator platform - no hydraulic fluid, no hydraulic pump, no hydraulic hoses. Compared to older hydraulic Bennett systems: simpler install (just waterproof electrical connections vs hydraulic plumbing), no fluid leaks or maintenance, faster response, lower power consumption when not actively trimming, and roughly equivalent service life in field conditions. The traditional hydraulic systems are still solid technology but the BOLT platform is the modern choice for new installs and upgrades.
Can I install it myself?
Yes - the BOLT system is specifically designed for owner installation with the Plug & Play connectors. Realistic time for a competent DIY: 2-4 hours total for the actuator and hinge install plus another 1-2 hours for the relay module install if you're doing both at once. Most of the install time is the old-actuator removal (drain hydraulic fluid, disconnect hoses, unbolt) - the new BOLT install is straightforward bolt-up and connect electrical cables. Confirm you have basic hand tools and an electrical multimeter for testing.
How long do the actuators last?
Typical 7-12 year service life under normal recreational use - the electric BOLT design eliminates the hydraulic failure modes (fluid leaks, pump failures) that determined the life of older Bennett hydraulic systems. The Plug & Play waterproof connectors also eliminate the corroded-connection failures that affected older systems. Heavy commercial-style use shortens life somewhat, light recreational use extends it.
Are the connectors actually waterproof?
Yes - the BOLT system uses waterproof bayonet-style connectors rated for direct saltwater exposure. Connectors are commonly mounted in the transom splash zone with no protection issues. This is a meaningful upgrade over older trim tab systems where the cable-to-actuator connection was a chronic water intrusion failure point. Standard fresh-water rinse after saltwater trips extends connector life further.
What if the trim tab gets bent or damaged - does the actuator survive?
Generally yes - the BOLT actuator has internal stops and over-load protection that prevent motor damage when the trim tab hits a hard end-stop or external resistance. If you hit submerged debris with the tabs deployed and bend a tab, the actuator typically survives intact and you replace just the bent tab. If the impact is severe enough to destroy the tab and the upper hinge, the actuator may also need replacement - inspect after any major impact.
Does the boat have to be 12V for these actuators?
Yes - the BOLT actuators in this kit are 12V. If your boat is 24V (less common on US recreational boats but more common on European and larger commercial vessels), you'd need the 24V variant of the BOLT actuators (different part number from Bennett). Match the actuator voltage to your boat's electrical system - using the wrong voltage damages the motor.
What about the warranty?
Standard Bennett Marine product warranty - register the product on Bennett's website at purchase for warranty activation. Bennett has been the world leader in trim tab technology since 1960 with well-established US-based warranty support and customer service. Warranty terms vary - check the current Bennett warranty policy at purchase for specifics. Bennett's reputation for warranty service is strong with quick resolution on legitimate claims.
Can I add this to a boat that's never had trim tabs?
No - this kit specifically assumes you have existing trim tabs you're keeping. For a fresh install with no existing tabs, you need Bennett's complete kit that bundles the BOLT actuators with new trim tab blades, mounting hardware, helm control, and relay module - typically called a BOLT complete kit (multiple variants based on boat size and tab size). The complete kits cost more but include everything you need for a ground-up install.
