See full version: How to Mount a Transducer on an Aluminum Boat; Expert Guides
What do I prefer between the two? Well, I’m a little hesitant to favor one over the other. There are pros to both. The first option feels more secure to me, but the alternative means you won’t have to put holes in your boat.
Now, you can start setting the mounting board in place. Simply set the screws in the hole, insert them, and drive the screws in. Don’t go overboard with it. Once the screws are snug, you can stop. [links]
Place marine-grade silicone around the holes you drilled. You can also draw a silicone line between the two holes to strengthen the adhesion. I don’t pull punches when securing the transducer board, so any way you can up the security of the board is more than welcome. [links]
Below, I’ve shared two of the best ways to go about with transducer mounting on an aluminum boat. The first involves using a standard mountain plate, while the other involves a bit of improvisation with a PVC board but is still effective.
While holding the mounting bracket on the area you have selected to mount it, use the level and make sure the lower corner of the bracket does not extend past the bottom of the hull. You should also make sure there is at least 1/4″ clearance between the bottom of the bracket and the bottom of the transom for fibrelgass boats, and 1/8″ clearance for aluminum boats. [links]
One of the most important factors in finding the best transducer mount location is to avoid turbulence. As a boat moves through the water turbulence is caused from the weight of the boat and from the propeller. The turbulent water is far stronger immediately behind strakes, ribs, or rows of rivets on the underneath of the boat, and also in the area immediately around the propeller. Propellers running clockwise create more turbulence on the port (left) side of the boat. If your boat uses an outboard it is best to locate the transducer at least 15″ away from the propeller (to the side). more
The transducer cable will usually be routed through the boat via a hole in the transom. Ensure that you leave enough slack cable so that the transducer head can be adjusted at all possible angles. Fix a cable clamp (usually supplied) to the outside of the transom so that transducer head cannot be moved in the even of the cable being pulled from within the boat. The hole can be sealed with a waterproof silicon once fitted to ensure it is watertight.
There will be variations for fitting different models of fishfinder and their transom mount locations. This example is based on the Humminbird 898c si. here
Thru-hull transducers must be positioned in front of the rudder, propeller, keel or anything else that may cause turbulence that will impair the performance of the transducer. They should also always be mounted in the water and angled downwards. A fairing block will also be required to aid proper mounting to keep the transducer perpendicular to the bottom.
One final word on brands is that it’s probably a good idea to try and plan ahead as to the other devices you might get on your boat and make sure that they can integrate. For example, certain GPS fish finders will integrate with your trolling motor for wireless trolling. Be sure to research some of the compatibilities of the brands you are considering as it might make you happier in the future that you planned ahead.
Because permanently installing a transducer to your aluminum boat can often mean puncturing and sealing the hull for installation, you’ll want to be very careful before you make any decisions. here
If you frequently beach your boat you’ll want to take this into consideration in terms of both how and where you mount this transducer to prevent damage. here
Portable power (battery powered) fish finders can be a great option for something like Jon Boats where the financial and logistical commitment can be smaller. A battery operated machine will be portable and require little to no installation on your boat. Plus not every Jon Boat will already have an external battery to use unless you perhaps have a trolling motor or other electric features.
When you are shopping for your fish finder be sure to understand its power source. If you are planning on using external power, make sure that you have enough power for everything you’ll need.
The fish finder needs the energy to work. Therefore, you have to take care of the wires. Start by looking for existing holes to connect the wires to the fishfinder. If there aren’t any, you’ll have to drill some behind the mount.
You’re supposed to measure twice or cut once before drilling the mounting holes. To create smooth holes, you have to apply full, confident speed. Taking it slow won’t give the best result.
You should know how to reattach wires. To make the wires slide through the tube to reach the console, you can get help from liquid soap. [links]