My Datamarine depth transducer has failed. It is located forward (port) right next to the knotmeter (starboard) along centerline under the v-berth on the 1986 Catalina 30 TR. My question is if there is a transducer that fits in the existing threads/thru-hull and if there is, will it connect to a NMEA 2000 and run to my GARMIN740 which would be the ultimate goal.
I need Depth!
- Thread starter mstock79
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Stu's link to Datamarine may help. I also have had several trials getting the depth sounders to work on my C 30. I don'y believe that U can cut the transducer wire, or it will severely degrade the signal. If your transducer is mounted through the hull as many older models are, than U would have to haul out to replace it with the same type. I wound up abandoning fixing my older Sea Ranger unit, as I even hooked it up to a replacement gauge unit - A Kenyon model similar to the Datamarine. You might find a used one salvaged by a Marine electronics shop. I just decided to use a Garmin built sounder which sends to my 440s GPS unit. I always prefer a dedicated unit, but C'est la vie. You can also buy one of those small puck size models made by hummingbird for about $100 new from West Marine, but they looked like they'd be hard to read from a distance from the bulkhead. Let us know if U fix it - I have several posts already on the subject.
My Datamarine depth finder never worked. I did cut both the depth finder and knot meter cables (not thinking) The knot meter worked after I spliced them back together...
I replaced both with a Humminbird 587i. The 587 through hull transducer is the same size as the old Datamarine. I just plopped it in the depth finder hole and left the old speed wheel in place.
If you're quick, you can pop the old one out and put in a new one while the boat is in the water...:dance: So 'they' say!!!
I replaced both with a Humminbird 587i. The 587 through hull transducer is the same size as the old Datamarine. I just plopped it in the depth finder hole and left the old speed wheel in place.
If you're quick, you can pop the old one out and put in a new one while the boat is in the water...:dance: So 'they' say!!!
The problem with trying to pop a new through- the- hull transducer in is just that - not only will you have a fire hydrant gusher of sea water on your hands, which makes it tough to push against that water pressure, it's my understanding that the outside flange of the transducer is bigger than the diameter of the hole. Otherwise how could you make it watertight? How can U push the sensor head through a hole, if its too small? It would have to mount through the hole, from the outside of the hull! You're better than me if you can do it in the water. That's why I went to the Garmin unit, as it mounts inside the hull. The problem with those is that you must have a perfect connection to the hull - no air voids or it won't work. I wound up reusing an older mineral bath filled dome that one of the old, abandoned transducer used. I just cut a hole in the top of it with a dremel tool, popped it in, and then sealed with silicicone caulk.
I tested the location first by setting the transducer on a sandwich bag full of mineral oil in the bow, beneath the water tank, which confirms that there's no air void where U wanna install it - this worked 4 me. :naughty:
Good luck - J
I tested the location first by setting the transducer on a sandwich bag full of mineral oil in the bow, beneath the water tank, which confirms that there's no air void where U wanna install it - this worked 4 me. :naughty:
Good luck - J
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