Idiots guide to installing fishfinder

[lakelandterrier]

Having taken the plunge to fit a rev counter (installed on the annual service) - my only wired in electronics, I'm now getting ambitious & want to fit a fishfindr.

I think I've identified a suitable one - the Garmin 90 (its size will fit well onto my small console) and am plucking up the courage to fit it myself.

As one who is absolutely useless with anything electrical, what pitfalls should I avoid / what tips to make the installation smooth & even look vaguely competent?

I understand you need to mount a bracket fro the transducer just on the waterline at the transom....drilling into the transom / hull scary!

The lead from the transducer needs to run to the console - I'd guess alongside the engine cables. I need to mount the bracket in the console, and somehow connect the power cable into the battery.

Are these steps right, and how best is all this done?

What order is best?

AS I said I'm an electrical ignoramus so simple advice would be appreciated

LT

[jyasaki]

Transducer usually is mounted even with the bottom of the hull. The bracket should be positioned away from the prop as much as possible, and (looking forwards along the hull) clear of any strakes or chines on the hull surface (you want a smooth flow of water over the transducer with mothing that would cause bubbles in front of it.) Mount the bracket such that, with the centerline of the ducer even with the hull, you have even amounts of adjustment up and down. This will allow you to tweak the position if needed.

Order of wiring doesn't really matter; it's when you power the thing up that you'll find out whether it's right or not.

You should (ideally) connect power to a switched line (i.e. battery to switch to fuse to unit), but it's not exactly mandatory. Make sure all connections are secure and waterproof (either use adhesive lined shrink tubing, or something like Liquid Electrical Tape.)

jky

[Downhilldai]

If you're going for a Garmin 90, don't make the installation too permanent. It will be coming out of there soon.....


http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/Fishfinder-Eag...1%7C240%3A1318

[lakelandterrier]

What's the matter with the Garmin 90 - I understand that Garmin is genberally good kit - well as good as anyone else.

The unit needs to be a compact onre to fit on the small console.

Are there better units of that size for similar dosh?

LT

[JABS]

Look at Lowrance. From my experiece they are extremely reliable, good value and very well supported.

If you can do it, purchase in the US and save more!

[jyasaki]

I had a new Lowrance (LMS-520C I think) flood from rinsing the boat off with a garden hose.

Lowrance replaced it with a new unit, but it took several weeks.

jky