Before we dive in, remember that mounting your transducer correctly is crucial to getting the best performance out of your HawkEye® DepthTrax® 2B. Let's go!
Step 1: Identify the Mounting Location
The first step is to figure out where you're going to mount the transducer. Ideally, this should be a spot where the water flow is smoothest to ensure accurate depth readings. Avoid mounting near the propeller, as the turbulent water can interfere with the transducer. A good spot is often on one of the pontoons, near the centerline of the boat but far enough away from the motor.Step 2: Preparing for Installation
Once you've identified the perfect spot, clean the area with a mild detergent or rubbing alcohol and let it dry completely. Gather all the materials you'll need for the installation - the transducer, the mounting hardware, a drill, and marine grade silicone sealant.Step 3: Drilling the Holes
Now, hold the transducer bracket against the mounting location and mark the spots where you'll drill holes for the screws. Make sure the bracket is level and straight. After that, drill the holes, taking care not to go deeper than necessary.Step 4: Mounting the Transducer
Apply a small amount of marine grade silicone sealant into each hole – this will help prevent water from seeping into the pontoon. Then, align the bracket with the drilled holes and secure it using the supplied screws. Ensure that it's snug, but be careful not to overtighten and strip the holes.Step 5: Adjusting the Transducer
Attach the transducer to the bracket and adjust it so that it's parallel with the water surface when the boat is in the water. It's essential that the transducer sits below the bottom of the pontoon and is angled straight down for accurate readings.Step 6: Running the Cable
Finally, run the transducer cable to your DepthTrax® 2B display. Make sure to secure it properly along the route with cable ties, ensuring it is clear from any moving parts. Connect it to the display unit as per the manufacturer's instructions.There you have it – your HawkEye® DepthTrax® 2B transducer is now successfully mounted on your pontoon boat! Now you can venture out on the water, confident in your ability to measure depth accurately and reliably. Remember to check the installation periodically to make sure everything is secure and working correctly.
In our next post, we'll dive into interpreting the readings on your HawkEye® DepthTrax® 2B. Until then, safe boating and enjoy your time on the water!