transducers

[bandf]

G'Day Guys,

I fit about 10 transducers a week, both through hull and transom, and in terms of discrimination and usability, there isn't much difference. When we fit a bolt through hull unit, we cut the 2 inch hole, then use an epoxy adhesive like Epiglue as a sealant when the nut is done up. Haven't had one leak or fail in over 10 years. Shoot through hull transducers (wetbox or not) are OK, but as you've observed, the temp sensors are useless, and you lose between 5 and 20% of the xdcr's output power and discrimination getting through the hull, so we try not to shoot thru unless we have to - in addition to this, a lot of our RIBs here in Oz have aluminium hulls, so shoot thru isn't an option. Best bet we've found over the years is the transom mount - as long as care is taken in locating, we haven't had too many problems (except for one customer who insisted on driving his into rocks!). In addition, the transom mounts are usually beter featured and cheaper. The Airmar comment is right too - most of the major manufacturers use Airmar transducers, except the standard range of xdcrs from Lowrance and Navman - they are produced in house by the manufacturers. In short, I'd use a transom mount, unless you've got a specific reason not to (moored boat, beach launching, etc..)

[Hugh Jardon]

i used a piece of pipe just slightly larger than the transducer thing and then filled it with oil and seems to work a treat, i was not brave enough to drill a hole and i did not get the sounder fitted when i bought the boat.

you do need to change the oil every now and then though!!!!!!!