advice please on a new depth sounder

[ChattingLil]

Having acquired a large steel long-keeler, I am in the zone of becoming overwhelmed with the list of jobs to be done. Currently going through the process of prioritising.

The number one priority is a new depth sounder and transducer. The old one is completely knackered and the transducer is through-hull and leaks. The old transducer is ginormous, so we need the hole plated up and a complete new kit.

Any recommendation on the best way to go please?

I know we should go the NMEA route, but budget is tight and we need something just to get us going while we save up for the proper upgrade of all electronics in the longer-term future.

thanks

 

[alahol2]

I'd go for a fishfinder, the cheaper ones are about the same price as a simple depth sounder and are more useful.

 

[alan_d]

I'd go for a fishfinder, the cheaper ones are about the same price as a simple depth sounder and are more useful.

Agreed, but they tend not to have the kind of transducer you could use with a steel-hulled boat.

 

[Burnham Bob]

regardless of other posts about the wind instruments, i had a NASA depth sounder for years. great value, robust and easy to install.

 

[dylanwinter]

regardless of other posts about the wind instruments, i had a NASA depth sounder for years. great value, robust and easy to install.

agree

had a cheapo fish finder

no good for silty east coast water

nasa

does what it says on the tin

D

 

[ChattingLil]

thanks all. That's what I was thinking. In the longer term we will probably be upgrading all the electronics and gadgets, but in the short term,we just need something to get us around the east coast.

 

[nigelm]

I think I might have a spare clipper depth sounder in my box of bits , defo got a new transducer & a new thru hull kit , I bought a new one when I thought I had a fault with old one , fitted it and then found it was a loose conection creating the problem , if its any use to you I'm sure we can come to an arrangement ..

 

[ChattingLil]

I think I might have a spare clipper depth sounder in my box of bits , defo got a new transducer & a new thru hull kit , I bought a new one when I thought I had a fault with old one , fitted it and then found it was a loose conection creating the problem , if its any use to you I'm sure we can come to an arrangement ..

thanks Nige.. will call you tomoz. xx