Problems with depth gauge

[JASinIL2006]

Hi I have a '97 Larson SEi 186 I/O bowrider that is new to me. I recently took it out on a big river for the first time and the depth gauge operated somewhat erratically. At times, it seemed to be working fine, showing a depth that seemed to be about what I'd expect. At other times, though, the display would show no numbers... even when the display was blank, though, I would get a warning beep when in very shallow water (i.e., approaching a sand bar).

The display going blank seemed to happen irrespective of whether I was idling, on plane, or in between.

This boat is new to me, and it's my first boat, so I don't know if there is some setting I need to make, or if the gauge is flaky or what. Any ideas? Any pointers to directions for settings for these gauges?

Thanks!

 

[rfdfirecaptain]

Re: Problems with depth gauge

the depth gauge operated somewhat erratically.... The display going blank seemed to happen irrespective of whether I was idling, on plane, or in between.QUOTE]

So was it "erratic" meaning there was at least something visible on the disply or was it "blank" meaning the screeen died and there was nothing visible on the display? At first I thought maybe your transducer had tripped out of its breakaway bracket and was flopping around freely. I've had an "erratic" display, but it was becasue the faster I was going the more my transducer was pointing behind me rather than down underneath me.

 

[JASinIL2006]

Re: Problems with depth gauge

Sorry if I wasn't clear... it was erratic in that it would be working fine, then the screen would go blank, seemingly at random times. In shallow water, though, it would still sound an alarm, even if the screen was blank.

I don't see any externally-mounted transducer; I assume that means it is a through-hull model?

 

[cr2k]

Re: Problems with depth gauge

Check ALL connections battery, alternator, fuses, everything.