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Installing Fishfinder

Hi, I received a Garmin fishfinder as a Christmas present. Its getting close to boating season in upstate NY, and I really don't have  a clue about installing it. I believe the transducer should be easy enough, as will be running the wires above deck, but where / how do I hook up the electrical connection? I'm not looking to rip up the dash, and I do have a switch available for connection, but I'm just unsure. I have a 2016 Sweetwater 2086 coastal edition. Thanks i advance for any guidance you can give me.

Comments

  • Boomer
    Boomer Member Posts: 307 ✭✭✭
    I mounted mine on my 2286 in the indention in the dash behind the radio antenna but all depends how large your fish finder is.
  • lovetoboat
    lovetoboat Member Posts: 21 ✭✭
    don't forget that where u mount the display maybe a problem for the helm cover fit. Wires are usually below deck- drill a hole in the floor under helm area to access. The cable is probably only 20 ft long so check the route carefully under the deck. Does your Garmin have GPS? -very helpfull-wouldn't be without it. Also-the size of the display is inportant[ at least 5in but 9in is better.]  Happy boating!
  • Boomer
    Boomer Member Posts: 307 ✭✭✭
    They sell an extension cable I needed one on my 2286
  • carguybill
    carguybill Member Posts: 29 ✭✭
    I have a Sweetwater 2086BF. I installed mine on the dash. Because the fish finder is too large to be installed in the dash I custom made a stainless bracket to mount the unit above the dash. One advantage is that I can tilt up the display making it easier to read when standing.
    I ran my transducer wiring under the deck and up through the access where the rest of the under deck wiring gets to the dash. I was able to access the back of the dash through the storage area under the helm station. 12 volt supply is readily available under the dash.