Page 1 of 1

depth finder

Posted: Mon Mar 12, 2018 11:59 am
by jamaierle
I have a 1962 seventeen foot ski boat. Where is the proper place to install a thru the hull depth finder or is it not even recommended? Also, the rear flag pole needs parts (the screw down clamp/bolt is missing and the pole is loose). Where can I find the part or the entire assembly? Thanks for any help.

Re: depth finder

Posted: Tue Mar 13, 2018 8:25 am
by Bilge Rat
The simplest (and least expensive) are the transom mount and they typically are mounted with the sensor below the bottom plank line where it meets the transom. Follow the manufacturer's instructions on placement. If it is accidentally hit by an object or when putting the boat back on the trailer, it is easy enough to re-position it. Of course, being on the transom means that it probably won't see too shallow a water depth until you're already into it.

The better (and more expensive, harder to mount) are the through-hull type. They are located slightly aft of mid ship definitely behind the planing line when you're going full throttle. You would need to be sure it is mounted in "undisturbed" water away from the prop and prop shaft otherwise you will see "noise" on the depth finder display from bubbles. The best are the ones that are flush with the bottom; no protrusion below the planks to get hit or wrecked when putting it back on the trailer. For a 17 foot boat, the through-hull type is a bit much to invest and install.

For flag pole parts try Jim at www.finewoodboats.com