Depth Gauge -- 31 foot Hunter

[john federowicz]

I own a 1984 31 foot Hunter. My depth gauge has failed. A couple of questions:
(1) Does anyone know where the transducer is located? I assume this is original, but I have no documentation on it. After crawling into every cubby hole, I can't figure out where the cable from the depth and speed gauges connect to a transducer. I assume it is thru-hole.
(2) Any suggestions for installing a new transducer and depth gauge? For my situation, the top priority is depth. All the other stuff I can live without, but I can't safely sail without the depth gauge.

Thanks, John

 

[CompassRose2]

I recently replaced mine. I left the original in place. I'm rather sure it was not factory. I doubt it came with it. It is located on the port side of the keel toward the back edge. Stupid place to put it. When the boat heels to starboard the keel goes to port thus effectively cutting off the depth sounder. Access is lifting the main bilge panel in the salon floor.

I re-mounted it foward of the keel in the head. I had to raise the bathroom floor grate about an inch to give it clearance.

Now I see the bottom before the keel does. That 10 ft won't matter at 6 knots, but if I'm crawling into a new uncharted gunkhole, it does matter.

 

[john federowicz]

Thanks for that. I don't think mine is factory either. I will look where you suggest. I was in the bilge quite awhile yesterday replacing the float switch, but will look specifically next time.

Did you go with another thru-hull unit or an in-hull mount? I'm looking on-line at one from Faria??

 

[wufibugs]

Hunter did not ship the H31 with any instrumentation, though you could get stuff added by the dealer before delivery. That said, location of thru hulls for these items would have been "dealer's choice".

 

[CompassRose2]

I have installed Raymarine I90 instruments with a Raymarine eD7 Chartplotter.

I actually left the old depth sounder in place in the bilge, I added a new smart transducer in the head. And 2 years ago when I bought the boat and the eD7 I mounted a Hull mounted unit under the V birth directly inside the access door. That unit worked fine for depth but not real sensitive for the fish finder with the having to go through the hull. I don't know any thing about that brand (Faria). But the transducers are mainly made by one company. Just be sure it's compatible with your instruments.

And like I said the glue on type In Hull, worked fine for the depth, but not so good as a fish finder.

And just for giggles and fun I also left the old speed instrument in place. I've set it to Statute mile (MPH), and the other one is set for knots, when land lubbers come aboard they get a real kick out of the difference.

One of my favorite sayings is when people ask me what's sailing like. I like to tell them, "It's the most fun you'll ever have at 10 MPH in your life". http://forums.hunter.sailboatowners.com/images/smilies/eek.gif