Mounting A Transducer on the Transom

[nokiddin]

Just bought myself a new locator (2D unit). Anyone have any pointers on the best location to mount the transducer on the transom? I know as close to center as possible, but how do I know where I won't cause any cavitation on the prop?

My boat is an 18 ft alum, with a single 90 hp merc outboard.

 

[nokiddin]

Re: Mounting A Transducer on the Transom

So, no replies yet, but since my last post I have learned some stuff. I have a few more questions.

My transducer does not say how far away to mount it from the prop. Is there a good measurement to measure from the outer edge of the prop to where I should install the transducer? Is there a rule of thumb for ensuring the transducer won't cause cavitation, even on turns?

 

[foodfisher]

Re: Mounting A Transducer on the Transom

Transducer and cavitation is not the problem. Prop turbulence and the transducer is. As far away from the prop, 18", as possible and still maintain water flow over the transducer is recommended. Parallel to the water level and about 1/8" below the bottom of the hull. Not behind strakes or rivet lines. Bubbles = fish indications

 

[nokiddin]

Re: Mounting A Transducer on the Transom

Transducer and cavitation is not the problem. Prop turbulence and the transducer is. As far away from the prop, 18", as possible and still maintain water flow over the transducer is recommended. Parallel to the water level and about 1/8" below the bottom of the hull. Not behind strakes or rivet lines. Bubbles = fish indications

Thank you for the help, I have one more question. My boat, a Starcraft Holiday, has a line of rivets all the way along the transom on the bottom on the back edge, (a line running side to side). I see no way to avoid these rivets, will they cause headaches?

 

[foodfisher]

Re: Mounting A Transducer on the Transom

Hard to avoid that one. Maybe at speed but probably not.

 

[dwparker99]

Re: Mounting A Transducer on the Transom

I had a 16' Alumacraft that no matter where I located the transducer, it would lose sync with the bottom above 14-16 MPH. Food fisher gave some good recommendations. The only things I would add is tilt the transducer down a little to reduce turbulence and also mount a marine grade or plastic board to the boat in the area you plan to mount the transducer. This will reduce the number of hole you have to drill in the boat trying to find that optimum location.

 

[Capt'n Chris]

Re: Mounting A Transducer on the Transom

http://forums.iboats.com/showthread.php?t=559410&page=3&highlight=transducer
Safe boating....