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How to Install a Humminbird Fishfinder 525

How to Install a Humminbird Fishfinder 525

kayak image by Greg Pickens from <a href='http://www.fotolia.com'>Fotolia.com</a>

A fish finder is a type of sonar device first used in the commercial fishing industry before becoming popular for recreational use. Fish finders use sound waves to locate fish and then bounce information back to a receiver that transmits data to a viewable format, usually on a digital screen. Basic models can detect fish and their depth, while more advanced versions involve graphics displaying underwater geographic features---important for large ships in shallow waters.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

Things You’ll Need:
  • Felt-tip pen
  • Straight edge
  • Drill
  • 9/64-inch drill bit
  • 1-inch spade drill bit
  • Marine-grade silicone
  • Phillips screwdriver
  • 7/16-inch wrench
Step 1
Pick a spot on the deck of the craft to mount the control head. Choose a position close to the cockpit for better visibility.
Step 2
Use a felt-tip pen to mark the position of the four mounting holes. Use a straight edge and the pen to draw an "X" between the mounting holes.
Step 3
Drill through the four marked screw positions using a 9/64-inch bit. Attach a 1-inch spade bit to the drill. Position the tip on the center of the "X" and drill.
Step 4
Slip the product power and transducer cables through the grommet---provided with purchase of this model. Press the grommet into the 1-inch hole. Draw the cables through the bottom of the mounting bracket.
Step 5
Position the mounting bracket so the holes are over the four drilled holes. Reduce the risk of leakage by filling the mounting holes with marine-grade silicone only. Insert the four screws and tighten by hand.
Step 6
Insert the power and transducer cables gently into the corresponding slots of the connector holder. Reach underneath the mounting surface and gently pull the cables downward until the connector holder is set over the front holes of the mounting bracket. Connect the support plate onto the back of the connector holder.
Step 7
Mount the connector holder to the mounting bracket. Use the two screws provided. Tighten the screws by hand.
Step 8
Pick a spot along the transom to mount the transducer. Choose the port side for counterclockwise-moving propellers and the starboard side for clockwise-moving propellers. Pick a spot at least 15 inches from the propeller.
Step 9
Position the template on the boat's transom on the intended site of the transducer. Position the template vertically so the bottom corner of the template closest to the propeller is touching the bottom edge of the transom.
Step 10
Use the felt-tip pen to mark the position of the two mounting holes on the template. Use the 9/64-inch bit and drill to a depth of 1 inch.
Step 11
Attach the transducer to the single-piece mounting bracket by slipping the pivot bolt, lock nut and washers through the corresponding holes.
Step 12
Use a Phillips screwdriver and 7/16-inch wrench to lightly tighten the bolt and nut. Keep this attachment loose so it can be easily adjusted later. Don't close these pieces together.
Step 13
Squeeze silicone into mounting holes drilled into the transom. Use the Phillips screwdriver and the two mounting screws to connect the transducer to the transom. Adjust the angle of the transducer so the device runs parallel to the boat's hull. Tighten the mounting screws as much as possible.
Step 14
Unplug the cables from the control head in preparation of routing the cables to the transom. Attach the cable clamp to the top of the transom for cable routing.
Step 15
Mark the position of the two clamp mounting holes using the felt pen. Use the 9/64-inch bit and drill the two holes. Attach the clamp using the screws provided. Reattach the cables to the control head.

Tips & Warnings

 
Consider the composition of your boat's hull before drilling with the hardware provided. Depending on the craft, you may need to use other hardware or methods of attaching parts.

Resources

Article Written By Mike Biscoe

Mike Biscoe has been writing since 2009. Focusing on travel, sports and entertainment topics, he has credits in various online publications including LIVESTRONG.COM and Trails. He often writes articles covering uncommon travel destinations from firsthand experience. Biscoe holds a Certificate of Completion in acting from the Pacific Conservatory of the Performing Arts.

Write for Trails.com

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