Determine transducer mounting location
NOTE:
If transom mounting is not possible because of a stepped hull or
cavitation noise, and you have a single layer fiberglass hull, In-hull installation is
an option. See
Inside the Hull Transducer Installation
for more information.
1. First, determine the best location on the transom to install the
transducer. Consider the following to find the best location:
• It is very important to locate the transducer in an area which is
relatively free of turbulent water. As a boat moves through the
water, turbulence is generated by the weight of the boat, and the
thrust of the propeller(s) - either clockwise or counter-clockwise.
This turbulent water is normally confined to areas immediately aft of
ribs, strakes or rows of rivets on the bottom of the boat, and in the
immediate area of the propeller(s). Clockwise propellers create more
turbulence on the port side. On outboard or inboard/outboard boats,
it is best to locate the transducer at least 15" (380 mm) to the side
of the propeller(s).
• The best way to locate turbulence-free water is to view the transom
while the boat is moving. This method is recommended if maximum
high-speed operation is a high priority. If this is not possible, select
a location on the transom where the hull forward of this location is
smooth, flat and free of protrusions or ribs.
• The hydrodynamic shape of your transducer allows it to point
straight down without deadrise adjustment.
• On boats with stepped hulls, it may be possible to mount the
transducer on the step. Do not mount the transducer on the transom
behind a step to avoid popping the transducer out of the water at
higher speeds; the transducer must remain in the water for the
control head to maintain the sonar signal.
• If the transom is behind the propeller(s), it may be impossible to find
an area clear from turbulence, and a different mounting technique
or transducer type should be considered (see
Inside the Hull
Transducer Installation
).
Mount the transducer bracket to the boat
1. Remove the transducer mounting template from this manual. (See
Appendix A, Transducer Mounting Template: SHS 7W
).
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