How to Troubleshoot Fish-Finder Transducer Problems

 Knowing how to fix a fish finder that isn't working is a good skill to have as a fisherman.

Troubleshoot Fish-Finder Transducer Problems

After all, the quicker the problem is resolved, the quicker you can get back to fishing and enjoying time on the water. Below, Lund Boats Product Manager, Rory Wiebe, explains how to troubleshoot common fish finder transducer issues and offers tips for getting the best performance from your chart and electronics.

The Fish-Finder Cannot Read the Bottom

An improperly installed transducer will not effectively transmit and receive sonar signals, and can cause problems with the fish finder's display of bottom depth. Wiebe recommends the following troubleshooting sequences to fix the issue.

·         Make sure the power Transducer is properly seated inside the mounting bracket. If the transducer hits an object, such as a tree trunk for example, it may be out of place.

·         With the boat on the trailer, ensure the transducer is horizontally level (i.e. from port to starboard). Measure from the left side of the transducer dividing line to the top of the beam. Repeat on the right side. If measurements differ, loosen the mounting screws and adjust the level of the transducer.

·         Holding the ruler lengthwise back and forth, press its top edge against the hull of the boat and extend it along the transducer. The level of the transducer installed on the waterline will follow a similar angle as a ruler. If your fish finder is in this mode but has trouble reading the bottom at high speeds, Wiebe suggests adjusting the transducer down a few degrees to improve performance.

·         Move the ruler, if necessary, to the inner side of the transformer to check its height. The outside of the transducer should extend just below the top edge of the ruler, which represents the water line. A transformer placed too high may not have consistent contact with water and not function properly. However, one set too low can create a rooster's tail-like spray and may affect the performance of the boat.

·         For the best high-speed operation and sharpest picture, increase the ping speed setting to maximum.

Side Scan Works only on One-Side

This is caused by something blocking the side-scan transducer signal. If multiple power Transducers are installed, the side imaging Transducer must be installed below the other Transducers.

The engine can be another obstacle. Clip the engine up out of the way of the transducer beam.

Fish Finder Error Messages related to the Power Transducer Connection or Signal

Inspect the power Transducer cables and connections. A broken cable, as well as damaged or missing pins in its connection area, are some of the reasons why a GPS device cannot receive data from the power Transducer. Repair or replace to correct the problem.

Next, review your fish-finder settings, and make sure it's associated with the power Transducer you want. Connection mix-ups can sometimes occur on networks with multiple fish finders and transducers.

With the fish finder running, place your hand in the water and under the transducer. You will feel a pulsing or clicking sensation when it is working correctly. If you don't, it's probably time for a replacement.

Tips to get the best performance from your fish finders and electronics

Read your GPS device owner's manual and installation instructions.

Do not install the transducers behind a rivet line, I-Beam, or any other components capable of causing water turbulence.

Use the power Transducer mounting plate to prevent drilling unnecessary holes in your Lund boat. Route the power Transducer and network cables away from batteries and power cables to prevent noise and interference on electronic screens.

Maintain tight and clean connections between the power cables and battery terminals.

Follow the manufacturer's recommended wire gauge when extending cables for electronic devices. Adjust the locator settings (e.g., sensitivity, color palette, sonar frequency, etc.) to fine-tune performance.


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