Transducer installation in Tampa area...
 

I am looking for a shop that can install a thru-hull transducer in my balsa cored hull (Velocity) in the Tampa, Florida area. I have read up about the process and the consensus seems to be that the performance of the unit is almost totally dependent on the skill of the installer and quality of the installation. I purchased the dual frequency Garmin unit but want the job done right since it is very difficult to correct once completed.

Anybody have any experience with a good shop in this area??

Thanks,

Leo

Re: Transducer installation in Tampa area...
 

ttt

Re: Transducer installation in Tampa area...
 

I installed my own. I had a stepped hull and the mfgr. installed the orginal under the motors. No good on a plane. Tried various positions of transom mount. So I installed a thru hull just in front of the first step. Used a router to cut away the first layer of fiberglass, then the balsa. Then used a laser level to level it. Poured epoxy all arount to reinforce the strength. Works perfect. I have a Garmin dual freq. GSD 20 & 010-10327-00 200/50KHZ 12/45 Deg. plastic adj. in hull mount transducer.

Dave

Re: Transducer installation in Tampa area...
 

My boat does not have steps and Velocity recommends mounting the transducer directly under the harmonic balancer of the motor. Other Velocities have have had great results with this location since it stays wet at most reasonable speeds. Some have perfect function at speeds in excess of 50mph.

I am comfortable cutting the inner hull and removing the balsa core myself but must admit that I am not great with fibreglass or epoxy. One fear is that I will not achieve a good bond and water will intrude and rot the balsa core. Another fear is that I will leave air bubbles in the resin and have poor reception/performance. I would rather pay to have a great job done by someone with experience.

Now to find that person!

Re: Transducer installation in Tampa area...
 

I would recomend lightning bay...these guys are top notch...they were just at keywest with their donzi..."lightning strikes" Great bunch of guys!!! they are at the end of the gandy bridge on the st. pete side