Swapping Log and Depth Transducer

[PRH]

I have an F43 and the log is fitted to one side of the centre line and the depth transducer on the other.

Problem is you have to remove the blower and engine battery to get to the log but you can get to the transducer without removing anything, not helpful as the log seems to need a clean every now and then!

Anyone have any thoughts on the possibility of swapping them over, is it possible, and who would do this for me on the south coast?

 

[MVDestiny]

If the thru hull fittings are the same manufacturer (Airmar for example) then you can simply swap them over. If the depth transducer is not a 'withdrawal' type then you can swap the around next time you have the boat out of the water. Again, if they are Airmar units the transducer diameters will be the same (53mm if memory serves).
Be aware though, that the thru hull fittings can be damaged on removal from the hull, depending on who put them in and with what!!

 

[PRH]

Thanks for the info MVDestiny.

It's funny, when you write out a question for the forum it is easy to think that you have put all of the info in but then miss something - I was looking to do it out of the water on Sealift so time would be a problem if there was anything broken.......

 

[spannerman]

You may find that the log transducer has a keyway on it which locates in a cutout in the thro' hull fitting, this is to align the paddle wheel 'fore-aft' so they may not just be plug and play.

 

[Dave_Seager]

It is probably only worth considering swapping the log and depth sounder if both are through-hull fittings. Since the depth sounder is readily accessible, have you checked whether it is fitted through the hull or in an oil bath inside the hull? If it is an oil bath then you would need to cut a new hole for the log and, more importantly, close the hole that the log came from. If you need to cut a new hole then there is no point in disturbing the depth sounder, just resite the log to a more convenient position.

 

[PRH]

It is probably only worth considering swapping the log and depth sounder if both are through-hull fittings. Since the depth sounder is readily accessible, have you checked whether it is fitted through the hull or in an oil bath inside the hull? If it is an oil bath then you would need to cut a new hole for the log and, more importantly, close the hole that the log came from. If you need to cut a new hole then there is no point in disturbing the depth sounder, just resite the log to a more convenient position.

Good point Dave. Done some more digging, its so much harder when you are not on the boat! They are both Raymarine ST50 and the installation manuals show through hull fittings.

Will have a better look when next down there....

Thanks all

 

[mbird]

Good point Dave. Done some more digging, its so much harder when you are not on the boat! They are both Raymarine ST50 and the installation manuals show through hull fittings.

Will have a better look when next down there....

Thanks all

Chances are they'll be the same as mine (also a Sealine) and the depth transducer will be a fixed though-hull type, not a withdrawable one. A replacement withdrawl type transducer and hull fitting is about £75, and assuming yours are the standard Airmar type, the hole will be the same diameter.

I am told, though, that getting the old one out can be a right bast**d!