Transducer Mounting - Depends on Prop spin direction?

[dorelse]

I didn't find this specific question in a search, so here goes:<br /><br />I was reading the Humminbird manual for the Piranha Max 15 that came with my boat.<br /><br />I think the transducer is installed on the wrong side possibly, and I'm wondering what issues that will cause?<br /><br />The manual says that if the prop spins clockwise, it must be installed on 'drivers' side 15" away from the prop, if counter-clockwise, install 15" away from 'passenger' side of prop, well prop spins clockwise, but its mounted on 'passenger' side. <br /><br />My boat is a 1996 18' Glastron GS-185, I/O 3.0L. <br /><br />Seems to work just fine, although admittedly there seems to be some false readings when at speed, like its reading bubbles possibly? At speed, temp & depth work just fine, and the 'extra' noise can be removed by adding a filter to the display, while still spotting fish.<br /><br />thoughts?<br /><br />TIA

 

[Boatin Bob]

Re: Transducer Mounting - Depends on Prop spin direction?

I wouldn't worry about it, I have twin I/O's and I have 2 depth finders, both transducers are mounted on the transom on either side of the drain hole approx 4 in apart right between both outdrives, probably breaking all the rules you mentioned above but they both work great so go figure. Don't look for problems that aren't there just enjoy your boat!

 

[dorelse]

Re: Transducer Mounting - Depends on Prop spin direction?

Thanks for the reply...yeah, believe me, I don't want any problems. I see some 'noise' coming through on the screen which I think is more do to the transducer angle as opposed to the mounting location.<br /><br />Plus I really don't want it on the other side as the ladder is there and we all know that'll get used as a 'first' step by the kids if its there.<br /><br />Thanks again. I'll leave good-enough alone!

 

[TwoBallScrewBall]

Re: Transducer Mounting - Depends on Prop spin direction?

I originally mounted my depth finder too close to the centerline. The finder worked fine, the problem was that as soon as the boat got on plane, the turbulence from the transducer made the prop blow out completely and the boat would barely break 30mph while screaming all the way. That's the major problem with mounting too close to the engine.

 

[Boatist]

Re: Transducer Mounting - Depends on Prop spin direction?

Your manual is correct with a right hand prop rotating clockwise it is better to have transducer on the starboard side. The basic reason is simple as the prop rotates the edge of the prop pushes a little water ahead of it. With a right hand prop on the port side with motor in foward this water is pushed up toward the transom and transducer. This little plus of water could make some false readings or noise.<br /><br />With the same prop on the starboard the water is pushed down away from the transom and transducer so will have no affect. Keep the transducer 12 inches outside the of the prop and you should not see any problems with transducer turblance affection the prop.<br /><br />One other thing about the prop wash is you can use it to help turn your boat faster in tight places. When you kick your boat in foward from stopped or slight stern way the back of your boat will kick to starboard with a right hand prop. I can turn my boat useing this in Half the normal distance. With no wind or current influence boat will turn in just over it own length. Takes a little practace.