How hard is it to mount a shoot-thru-transducer?

[Mike Waldrop]

Want to install a shoot-thru transducer for a X71 on my 2000 Nitro NX 882, just wanted to know is the a very hard job to do? and what should I watch for so the job will go smoothly?

 

[Mike Waldrop]

Russ, thanks again for coming to resuce but I have some questions? Why do you need to remove the battery and oil tank, I seem to be able to reach the area where the old transducer is with without any problem. Also the area on my boat seems to already be sanded and ready, its just before the old transducer so do you think I could use that location? or do you think I should remove the old transducer, I've been told that is very hard to do without messing up the boat or something? Also in number 8 what is RTV, hope thats not a dumb question? and how long will it take to cure? 24 hours or what? sorry so long but have you ever mounted a transducer on the transom? seems that might be easyier but what about the hole you must drill? Thanks again!!! Any help would but great!!!!

 

[Russ Charles]

Mike,



Are you sure you are looking at the bilge area? On my 2001 882 with XR-6, the crank battery is on the right, one trolling motor battery is center aft, the oil tank is centered in front of that battery (over the bilge access cover), and the other trolling motor battery is on the left. I have to remove the left trolling motor battery to allow the oil tank to move to that side to get it out. (See photo)



Anyway, it should not be too hard to remove the old transducer. Just use something like a chisel with sharp edge to get under the edge and then just pry. It should pop off. Or, if you have a flat area as you describe, just put the new one there.



RTV is Silicone adhesive/sealant. Can be bought at any auto parts or hardware store. Comes in a tube and mostly clear in color, but can be blue or black.



Most of the epoxies I mentioned cure firm in 30 - 60 minutes, but a little longer if a few drops of alcohol have been added (alcohol has to evaporate out before cure process starts). Total cure is probably 12 - 24 hours.



Yes, I also have a Garmin transducer on the transom. Also easy, just follow the manufacture's directions. In the proper location on the 882, the transducer mounting holes will be through the hull (on the first step on the right side), so be sure you use RTV (sealant on the mounting screws.



rUSS

 

[Russ Charles]

Mike,



Photo of Garmin transducer mount.

 

[Russ Charles]

Mike,



Sounds like a better setup. Next time I have to get in the bilge maybe I'll change it around.

Yes the transducer kicked up all the time in rough water. I spot epoxied it down. No problem now.

The cable clamps are held with #4 or maybe #6 screws, but I'm guessing.

Since the tranducer is not on the pad (no room) I lose signal at about 50 MPH. I do have an in dash Zercom (been wanting to change it out for a Lowrance 1240 though) with thru hull transducer, which is good at all speeds. Don't look at it much though.

BTW, the transducer is for a Garmin 168 MapSounder. I run a X-85 on the bow (that's the X-85 temp sensor you see in the photo).



Russ

 

[Russ Charles]

Yes, the Zercom transducer is in the bilge in the center of the pad.



Russ

 

[Mike Waldrop]

Thanks Russ for all the informaiton, Be Safe