new chart plotter using factory installed depth finder and water temp transducer

[ajfdj55]

Im considering adding a chart plotter/fish finder to my 2015 R5. I really don't want to drill a hole thru the hull for a new transducer, nor do i want to use a transom mount transducer. Where is the Cobalt factory installed transducer which provides the standard/default depth finder and water temp gauges with their readings? Or is a transducer not being used for these gauges? I'd like to know what options exists for using the factory installed transducer with a new chart plotter, or if a thru hull hole already exists and perhaps this can accept a second cable for a new, second transducer? Or maybe I've had one to many cocktails this evening and this questions just doesn't make any sense

[bruceb58]

The transducer for my 2017 is drilled through the hull. Personally, it wouldn't be a concern to me adding this type of transducer(Garmin with NEMA interface). The portion outside the boat sits flat with the hull.

[CaptBob]

In a previous boat we added a transducer as a "shoot thru hull" as opposed to "thru hull". When done properly, (either with a oil base or even dunked in resin, gotta be careful to remove ALL bubbles with resin) there is minimal loss of sensitivity. (depending on hull, cored or not, )

shoot tru hull.jpg

Just another option.
I'm going to add some sonar but we will probably just hang them off the transom.

[bruceb58]

In a previous boat we added a transducer as a "shoot thru hull" as opposed to "thru hull". When done properly, (either with a oil base or even dunked in resin, gotta be careful to remove ALL bubbles with resin) there is minimal loss of sensitivity. (depending on hull, cored or not, )
shoot tru hull.jpg

Just another option.
I'm going to add some sonar but we will probably just hang them off the transom.

I have done the exact same thing before. It worked pretty well. Made a fiberglass box that was open on the bottom with a lid. Epoxied it in and then had the transducer mounted to the lid. We floated some mineral oil on top of the water so it didn't evaporate.

[ajfdj55]

thank you all for the info.