In hull transducer for Garmin

[PMR#47]

My Garmin depth finder is not functioning properly. Besides getting software updates I was told to add mineral oil to the in hull transducer. There are all types of mineral oil. Any recommendations? It also said I could use antifreeze (the pink type) Is that a good option? Please advise,

 

[zekeandboone]

I use the pink antifreeze. Everyone else seems to use it as well.

 

[PMR#47]

I use the pink antifreeze. Everyone else seems to use it as well.

Thanks for the quick response.

 

[watson1987]

Before I fixed the leak in mine I used to just top it up with Volvo VCS coolant (yellow stuff), because that's what I had on board.

Any fluid should work as long as it's stable (i.e. won't allow any growth that would foul the sensor/reading)

 

[GarryH]

Thanks for the quick response.

In my previous posts, I noted continual issue with the transducer on my originally new 2021 R-29. From delivery, there was a problem. The transducer cup was not attached to the hull by the factory and of course no fluid. The dealer installed and filled cup and transducer worked. 3.5 years later, 9 times refilling the cup at great inconvenience, the transducer does not operate more than 4 months. Garmin has been very helpful, but no permanent fix. Tried both RV antifreeze and mineral oil. Obviously, the assumption is that the fluid leaks from the cup, but no indication of escaped liquid. I have decided to replace the existing transducer cup. My research indicates that this is going to be difficult because the need to entirely remove the silicone sealant in a very limited area to gain access. BTW, Garmin recommends either 3M 5200 or Permatex Ultra Black silicone. Depends on how confident one is that the replacement will be a successful permanent fix. I am going with Permatex.
Lastly, you can test the transducer by putting it into a vinyl zip bag that is filled with water. Garmin recommendation. Good luck.

 

[watson1987]

Also to add, to fix my leak I used an entire tube of the following. I made a donut with it, similar to how you would install a sink drain with plumbers putty, been holding fine for 4 months. Not sure if it's better or worse than 5200, but I think it's easier to work with as an almost solid putty.

PC-Marine™ – Protective Coating Company

www.pcepoxy.com

 

[GarryH]

Also to add, to fix my leak I used an entire tube of the following. I made a donut with it, similar to how you would install a sink drain with plumbers putty, been holding fine for 4 months. Not sure if it's better or worse than 5200, but I think it's easier to work with as an almost solid putty.

PC-Marine™ – Protective Coating Company

www.pcepoxy.com

Interesting. I am told that in Florida, the high ambient temperature is the issue with sealants. Personally, I find that hard to believe. In any event, I would think that a Permatex product would be able to withstand intense heat. Or at least the heat in a bilge.