Installing VHF and Fishfinder

[anyfishlldo]

I just got a VHF and a small fishfinder and am wanting to install them but the local boat dealerships are quoting me $350ish for the install of both.<br /><br /><br />Is this a relatively easy install? I can handle the electronic hookup angle, but it's the cutting my fiberglass dash that scares me.<br /><br /><br />Has anyone else done this themselves in a sportboat and will the fiberglass be manageable to cut?

 

[waterinthefuel]

Re: Installing VHF and Fishfinder

Whoa! 350 bucks? Jeez, I'll install it for that!<br /><br />Cutting fiberglass is a messy job, but it's not hard. I personally didn't do it, but watched my father. I'm sure someone in here can give you more info on it.<br /><br />I've installed both a VHF and fish finder myself, and neither were hard to install. The VHF took about an hour, the fish finder a bit more due to having to get the angle of the transducer right. Still not a big deal by any means.

 

[ricksrster]

Re: Installing VHF and Fishfinder

I've cut holes in my dash using a saber saw and holes saws. Fiberglass cuts very easy, but is very dusty.

 

[vampirefish]

Re: Installing VHF and Fishfinder

I'm in the same boat (no pun intended )...gotta cut into that dash... kinda scary! I haven't mustered up the guts yet... but I'm running out of time.

 

[tangent]

Re: Installing VHF and Fishfinder

I just mounted a fishfinder on top and a VHF radio flush. Here's what I was told and it worked out fine. I put down tons of masking tape to protect the gelcoat and help prevent chipping. Then, after drilling a small starter hole, drilled in reverse with the full bit until getting through the gelcoat. For the screw holes, just went to the right depth. For the bigger through hole, switched reverse/foward until it went through. For flush mounting, I penciled in the template, drilled four big holes in the four corners and used a jig saw to cut the hole. Used a file to bevel the opening.

 

[ricksrster]

Re: Installing VHF and Fishfinder

be careful not to cut anything that is behind the dash!

 

[cuzner]

Re: Installing VHF and Fishfinder

Sharp blades, a high speed motor and a steady hand is all you need.Just take your time and you will do fine!!!<br /><br /><br /> Jim

 

[anyfishlldo]

Re: Installing VHF and Fishfinder

I got behind the dash last night and it looks all clear for where I want the VHF, I'll just relocate the 12V acc. port. and mount the VHF opposite the stereo.<br /><br /><br />As far as the fishfinder, I still need to find and appropriate location, and then worry about drilling a hole in my transom, yikes.