How to: Fix a transducer for $40 — Bob J

Yay! Back on the water at last, antifouling done, engine filters done, and ..off we go? Ah, but, the wind indicator is no longer working, gone on strike because of covid, or more likely, old age. The little doohickey which goes around and around isn’t going round any more.

As well, it is over 20 years old after all. No matter says I, I’ll just have to get a new one. But here the ugly face of the marine industry rears its head, yes sir, here’s a  new transducer – that’ll be about $900. Ouch.

However, a little research informed me that you CAN repair them. The problem is almost certainly the mini bearings have become corroded over time. These bearings are the same bearings which are used in – would you believe- fishing reels. 

So, 4 new bearings and a very careful dismantling, replace bearings and we now have a functioning transducer. Cost $40.

If anyone else is in the same boat, let me know, and I’ll supply the reference websites.

Bob J