Transducer Replacement

[boater2018]

I have a Sundeck 210, but I recently purchased a skiff that could use some input on. I looked over it well before I bought it and I didn’t see any places in the hill other than some typical scuffs from use, but nothing that looked like it was deep enough to leak or any gashes, cracks, or damaged areas. The transom is solid as a rock and there are no spots in the rear of the boat that do not sound solid when knocking on it. With that said, I am changing fish finders and when I removed the old transducer, there is some water dripping slowly from the screw holes where the transducer was mounted. They were sealed, but I’m not sure with what or how long ago it was done. I did not notice any dripping from the holes when the screws were in place, although I didn’t really watch them and check really good either. The bilge area and all areas that I can look below the deck are bone dry. I am thinking some water seeped in around the screw holes while in the water. My plan is to let them dry until the holes are not dripping and then seal them with 5200. Then after sealing, using a pvc plate to mount the new transducer to without putting any more holes in the transom. The boat is all composite, so no wood anywhere in it. Has anyone experienced this same issue? Also, the waterline is below the engine bolts.

 

[dtfeld]

You dont say skiff make model and engine HP, but if there is no wood in the transom, letting it dry and resealing as you describe should work just fine. To get all the water out, you might consider a vacuum pump on it for a while.

 

[boater2018]

You dont say skiff make model and engine HP, but if there is no wood in the transom, letting it dry and resealing as you describe should work just fine. To get all the water out, you might consider a vacuum pump on it for a while.

The Skiff is a 1999 Barracuda Boats 17'. They were only made for a few years in Westwago, LA. I managed to speak to the owner of the marine company that installed the outboard engines and he said they were built well and actually had some original brochures that he sent me. The brochures stated all composite construction, no wood. Thank you for your reply. It's a really unique boat that will make a good fishing boat and a nice little backup vessel if we have any issues with the Sundeck.