I need to intall my thru-hull transducer again this year. They seem to only last for about 1 season then I get a 1.7ft reading until I replace it. My hull is cored, but there is a place where the coring is hollowed out. I was able to pull my last transducer out with some force. But it did not leave any glue on the inside of the hull. This is good for preparation for the new transducer, but I'm wondering why I can get them out so easily and why they keep going bad? The last one I installed was on fresh paint and the motor was out. I had full access and was able to do a good job. It sill has not lasted. I use special transducer glue for the install. Just wondering why they seem to go bad? Could it be too close to the engine and heat? Should I use a different type of adhesive? I was told the normal resin may heat up too much. BTW I have a 95 baja 24 outlaw and the transducer is located right under the oil pan.

I'm not going to be able to help you out, because basically I could have written your post! I have the same problem with the transducer in my '94 24 Outlaw. I've had this boat for 3 seasons AND 3 pucks -- no kidding. And I've experienced pretty much the same scenario as you: The depth finder reads well for awhile. 1/2-way into the boating season the reading alternates between what looks like an accurate reading to a consistent 1.5-ish feet reading -- even in the deepest part of the Hudson River. By the end of the season, it is only reading between 1.2 and 1.7 feet and by then I'm able to knock the puck out with my fist. I have the same setup as you under my engine. So I'm interested in getting some help with this, too.

In five boats I have never had a transducer fail, and that is over MANY years they have lasted.... there must be something wrong with the head unit causing the transducer to fail. Replace the whole thing this time....Lowrance or Hummingbird, either one.

I did replace the whole unit this year with a Hummingbird and it still went bad.

I know of nothing else besides voltage damage (high or low)

I had one in my Powerquest that went throught the hull in about the same location. It only worked about 50% of the time. Usually at idle speeds. I have heard others having the same problem with their transducers.

When I got a new boat I mounted the transducer on the back of the transom. It works perfectly at all speeds and all bottom types. I know you are not "supposed" to use this type of transducer on a performance boat. (It might slow me down .0001 mph)

I would contact the manufacturer of the transducer and see what they have to say???

Steve

use slow curing glue to insure no air pockets due to fast set-up! also if you mount it right behind a strake (air) you will have issue at higher speeds...follow the instructions...they are important...you can get a copy online at gaffrig...