New transducer - how to run cable to console

[sweenman1]

Hi, the transducer connected to my fish finder on my avon 620 is bust. I've got a replacement and I'm trying to work out if i can fit it myself. Electrically it isn't an issue as you just connect it the fish finder but I have two key questions:
1) how do you run the cable under the floor of the boat to the centre console. (attached photo shows where the cable enters below the floor.)
2) and how can you get into the centre console to attach the cable. ( I'm not sure if grey section of the console in the attached photo can come away to make it easier to work on the instruments? )

Any help appreciated.
sweenman1

[Bigtalljv]

attach a pull cord to the display/console end of the existing transducer cable before you pull it out the transom end. Then use that to pull the new cable through. I'd also attach a second pull cord to leave in there for future use. Just in case.

If the gray section doesn't come off then you just have to work through the hole that the fish finder is in. The screws that hold that in might be hidden under some trim on it, mine are.

Jason

[sweenman1]

thanks. I like the idea of using a spare pull cord.
I guess i'm just worried that that the cable gets stuck as i pull it through or the pull cord breaks and i end up worst off if I have to take it to a shop.

I'll check out the console next time I'm at the boat.

[Bigtalljv]

All valid concerns. Use a good strong pull cord and if it gets stuck don't pull harder. You can usually wiggle things free pushing and pulling the other hoses/cables. Also lots of electrical tape to make a nice taper on the plug, no sharp edges

Jason

[sweenman1]

thanks
i'll give it a try.
sweenman1

[jyasaki]

Just did that job. I used a piece of 16Ga steel wire (not recommended if you want to avoid scratching gel coat.) I made a hook (or eye) that went around the cable, and taped the whole thing to the connector, using enough tape to get a smooth taper. All went pretty well on both cables (new unit has 2 transducers.)

jky

[sweenman1]

Thanks,
I'm feeling confident to give it a go.

Last question:

The new transducer isn't identical to the current transducer and the transom fitting is different. Any advice on how to fill-in the previous screw holes and is there a preferred product that you can buy on the web.
Also is there anything you need to do when screwing in the new screws to keep everything water tight.

[boristhebold]

Top tip use talc powder on cable pull through it should help, with new cable run it through your hands full of talc first.

[jyasaki]

Originally Posted by sweenman1

Thanks,
I'm feeling confident to give it a go.

Last question:

The new transducer isn't identical to the current transducer and the transom fitting is different. Any advice on how to fill-in the previous screw holes and is there a preferred product that you can buy on the web.
Also is there anything you need to do when screwing in the new screws to keep everything water tight.

Fill old holes with epoxy, and san smooth when cured.

I'd pre-drill, insert the screws, remove, use some marine caulk in the holes, and reinstall screws.

jky

[sweenman1]

Great tips. thanks.
I'll get to the shops for talc and epoxy.

[jyasaki]

Baby powder or cornstarch will work as a dry lubricant as well.

Don't know about the UK, but pure talc is not that available in the US (drysuit divers use it; I end up buying from a billiards shop.)

jky

[sweenman1]

thanks
sweenman1