We just bought a Lund Angler, and had the dealer mount the depthfinder (Garmin) to make sure it was done right. This is a transom mount transducer, so they mounted with 2 screws into the hull. Took the boat out yesterday for the first time, and there is a small trickle of water leaking where the transducer was mounted. What is the best way to fix the leak? I can't seal from inside the boat because the rear area is enclosed where the transducer is mounted. I'm going to call the dealer tomorrow, but may fix it myself to save the trip. Also, I don't want them to try something that is not the best way just to save themselves time/money. (our other boats have been fiberglass, so didn't have to deal with this) Thanks!
Check the mounting system.
I assume that the transducer has been mounted with stainless steel screws. Check to see if
1. They are tight
2. They are stripped out.
If the screws appear to be loose - they may simply need to be tightned.
If they are tight - but still leaking - they need to be removed - and the screw holes and the area around them need to have a dab of silicon placed in the area - then the screws replaced.
3. If the screws are stripped out -- i.e. if you turn them and they never get tight - you will need to install the next larger size screw . When you install this screw - insure that the hole and area around it has a liberal coating of silicone.
When you are doing this checking -- insure that you don't have another hole nearby. If this is a used boat - and if there was another transducer installed -- it is possible that a screw was removed and a sealant was simply used to plug the hole. If a fastner wasn't reinstalled in the hole - it is very likely that the former hole is leaking. If the former hole is under the transducer - you need to get some type of flush fastner -- like a flush rivet or similar to seal the hole and still allow the transducer to be installed on the boat.
Take care and may your boat stay dry.
REW