Andrew Pace
If you're looking to install a Lowrance transducer on a fibreglass boat, there are a few methods you can choose from. The most common installation method is the transom-mounted transducer, which typically follows a Skimmer design that allows water to pass smoothly over the transducer when the boat is on a plane. Another option is the shoot-thru hull installation, where the transducer is epoxied to the floor of a fibreglass boat, transmitting through the bottom of the hull. A third option is the thru-hull mount, where a hole is drilled in the bottom of the boat for the transducer to be installed. To avoid gelcoat cracking on a fibreglass boat, use a countersink to carefully chamfer the edges around the hole and seal the installation with a quality marine sealant.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Installation method | Transom-mounted, Thru-hull, Shoot-thru hull, Trolling motor |
| Hull material | Timber, fibreglass, steel, alloy |
| Transducer material | Bronze, plastic, stainless steel |
| Mounting considerations | Avoid drilling holes in the transom, use a plastic plate to prevent corrosion, ensure water flows smoothly over the transducer, seal with marine epoxy |
| Transducer placement | Slightly lower than the hull, parallel to the waterline, within 300mm of the echosounder |
| Performance considerations | Avoid areas prone to noise or vibration, adjust the tilt for better performance at speed, prevent gelcoat cracking |
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What You'll Learn
Transom-mounted transducers
When installing a transom-mounted transducer, it is important to ensure that the bottom of the transducer is parallel to the hull bottom. Lowering the "tail" end of the transducer by a few degrees can improve performance, especially at higher speeds. However, it is crucial not to mount the transducer too low, as it can create turbulence and hurt performance.
To install a transom-mounted transducer, you will need to follow these general steps:
- Choose the proper mounting location, considering factors such as propeller placement and avoiding areas that create turbulence.
- Drill holes in the transom for the mounting plate or transducer. It is important to measure the screw length and mark the drilling depth to avoid drilling too deep.
- Apply marine sealant to the screws and the mounting holes.
- Use a manual screwdriver to screw the bracket into the transom, but do not tighten the screws completely.
- Adjust the bracket to ensure it is at the correct height and parallel to the waterline.
- Tighten the screws to secure the bracket in place.
- Lock the transducer into the bracket.
It is worth noting that an alternative to drilling holes in the transom is to use a mounting plate made of materials such as plastic or composite decking. This method helps to avoid issues like transom rot and corrosion, especially in saltwater environments.
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Shoot-thru hull installation
To install a Lowrance transducer on a fiberglass boat using the shoot-thru hull method, follow these steps:
- Prepare the transducer mounting bracket: The Lowrance transducer mounting bracket is typically made of stainless steel. To prevent corrosion, especially if the boat is used in saltwater, it is recommended to use a plastic isolating material such as "King Starboard" between the bracket and the hull. Cut a piece of this plastic to size and screw it into the hull using existing holes or by drilling new ones.
- Mount the transducer: Epoxy the transducer to the floor of the boat, ensuring it is epoxied to the plastic isolating material if used. The transducer should be mounted slightly lower than the hull, with a kickdown of around 2-5 degrees to ensure a clean flow of water over the transducer face.
- Seal and connect: Seal the installation by coating screws and filling pilot holes with a marine sealant approved for below-waterline use. Polyurethanes like Sikaflex 295 UV and synthetic rubber formulations like Sudbury Elastomeric Marine Sealant are recommended. Finally, connect the transducer to the display following the instructions provided by Lowrance.
Some additional considerations for the shoot-thru hull installation method include:
- Ensuring the transducer is level: Use a horizontal guideline on the transom to ensure the transducer is level side-to-side. Getting the transducer level with the waterline when viewed from the back can be more challenging, but a few degrees of deviation should not significantly affect performance.
- Avoiding gelcoat cracking: To prevent gelcoat cracking, run your drill in reverse until the bit reaches the fiberglass. Then, use a countersink to carefully chamfer the edges around the hole.
- Preventing corrosion: If you are in saltwater often, crevice corrosion can be a significant issue. Consider bedding the entire transducer bracket in sealant to prevent corrosion.
- Running cables: For thru-hull transducers, it is easier to run cables separately from other electronics, reducing potential interference.
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Thru-hull transducer installation
To install a thru-hull transducer on a fibreglass boat, you will need to follow these steps:
Firstly, it is important to measure the deadrise, which is the angle of the boat's V, at the mounting location. This can be done using a free app called iNstall or by using a protractor. Drawing a line on the inside of the hull perpendicular to the centreline through the mounting location will help ensure the transducer is aligned correctly.
Next, you will need to drill a hole in the hull for the transducer to be installed. The size of the hole will depend on the model of the transducer being installed. For example, for the Airmar B45 transducer, a 22mm or 7/8" hole is required, while for the Airmar B260 transducer, a 33mm or 1-5/16" hole is needed. It is important to note that if you have a cored fibreglass hull, you will need to oversize the hole on the inside and dig out the coring.
Once the hole has been drilled, push the stem of the transducer through, twisting it to squeeze out any excess sealant. Ensure that the transducer is aligned with the blunt/button/arrow end facing forward toward the bow and that the long side is parallel to the centreline of the boat. If you are installing a stainless steel transducer in a metal hull, be sure to include an isolation sleeve between the transducer stem and the hull.
Finally, from inside the hull, slide the backing block and the hull nut onto the cable. Seat the backing block against the hull, making sure the arrow end faces forward. Screw the hull nut in place and tighten it with slip-joint pliers. Be careful not to over-tighten if you are installing in a cored fibreglass hull, as this can crush the core.
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Preventing gelcoat cracking
Installing a Lowrance transducer on a fiberglass boat can be done in several ways, including transom mounting, trolling motor mounting, and shoot-thru hull mounting. Shoot-thru hull mounting involves epoxying the transducer to the floor of the boat, which can be a concern for gelcoat cracking.
Gelcoat cracking can be caused by several factors, including impacts, stress, ageing, and temperature change. To prevent gelcoat cracking when installing a transducer on a fiberglass boat, it is important to follow the manufacturer's instructions and take the necessary precautions. Here are some detailed, direct, and instructive tips to help prevent gelcoat cracking during the installation process:
- Use a plastic plate: When installing a transducer on the transom of a fiberglass boat, it is recommended to attach a plastic plate to the hull first. This helps to distribute the load and can reduce the risk of cracking.
- Choose the right screws: When drilling into the gelcoat, use the appropriate type and size of screws. Pre-drilling holes and grinding the tips of the screws can help reduce the risk of cracking.
- Seal with epoxy: After drilling holes for screws, seal the core with epoxy to help prevent moisture intrusion and strengthen the area.
- Reinforce with fiberglass: If the gelcoat cracks are caused by fiberglass flexing, add fiberglass reinforcement to the backside to provide additional support and prevent future cracks.
- Repair existing cracks: Before installing the transducer, inspect the boat for any existing gelcoat cracks. Repair these cracks by removing the gelcoat, sanding the area, and applying multiple layers of fiberglass resin to fill the crack. This will create a stronger bond and reduce the chances of future cracking.
- Use a barrier: Consider using a barrier, such as duct tape or a plastic isolating material, between the transducer and the hull to help distribute the load and reduce the risk of cracking.
By following these tips and taking a careful, methodical approach to the installation, you can help prevent gelcoat cracking and ensure a successful transducer installation on your fiberglass boat.
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Transducer positioning
Transom-Mounted Transducers:
Transom-mounted transducers are one of the most common installation methods for fibreglass boats. When positioning a transom-mounted transducer, it is important to ensure that it sits slightly lower than the hull, typically 1/8" below it. This positioning helps improve performance, especially at speed. However, it is crucial not to mount the transducer too low, as it may create turbulence and hurt overall performance. The "tail" end of the transducer can be lowered by a few degrees to enhance performance further while underway. Additionally, consider using a plastic plate attached to the hull first, preventing the need to drill holes directly into the transom and improving water flow over the transducer.
Thru-Hull Transducers:
Thru-hull transducers are installed through a hole in the bottom of the boat. For fibreglass boats, thru-hull transducers deliver exceptional results, especially when the boat is moving at speed. When positioning a thru-hull transducer, it is important to locate it in an area of minimal turbulence. Avoid mounting it behind planing strakes or scuppers on the hull. Ensure the transducer is parallel with the waterline when the boat is at optimum speed. Additionally, consider using a fairing block to match the deadrise of the hull, ensuring smooth water flow over the transducer.
In-Hull Transducers:
In-hull transducers, also known as shoot-thru hull installations, are epoxied to the floor of a fibreglass boat, transmitting sonar signals through the bottom of the hull. When positioning an in-hull transducer, it is crucial to align it vertically to ensure the sonar beam tracks the water bed efficiently. In-hull transducers should be installed in a tank cut to match the deadrise of the vessel and filled with propylene glycol (marine antifreeze).
Side-Imaging Transducers:
For side-imaging transducers, ensuring level positioning is essential. Use a horizontal guideline on the transom, such as the bottom edge of a jackplate, to ensure the transducer is level side-to-side. This positioning is particularly important for V-bottom boats to ensure the transducer is level with the waterline when viewed from the back.
Pocket or Keel Transducers:
Pocket or keel transducers are typically used on commercial vessels. These transducers should be mounted towards the front of the boat, around the second bow wave. Ensure they are parallel to the waterline when the boat is at optimum speed. Position them within 300mm of the echosounder (if used) and at the same point fore/aft for accurate structure overlay.
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Frequently asked questions
For fibreglass boats, through-hull transducers deliver the best results, especially at speed. They are located in clean water, well forward of the engines, and their location makes it easier to run cables separately from other cables and electronics that can cause interference.
To install a through-hull transducer, you will need to drill a 1” to 3” hole in the hull bottom. To avoid gelcoat cracking, run your drill in reverse until the bit reaches the fiberglass. Then use a countersink to carefully chamfer the edges around the hole. Seal the installation by coating screws and filling pilot holes with a quality marine sealant.
When mounting a transducer on the transom, use a horizontal guideline to ensure your side-imaging transducer is level side-to-side. Lowering the "tail" end of the transducer a few degrees can improve performance at speed.
