The organization of the fishing place on an inflatable boat requires a special approach to attachment of attachments. sonar This is a key element in ensuring the stability of sonar readings and the safety of expensive electronics. Unlike rigid hulls, PVC boats are subject to stronger vibrations and deformations on the wave, which imposes increased demands on the quality of fasteners.
Incorrectly selected mounting can lead to loss of signal, damage to the sensor or even fall of the device into the water. Modern models of brackets allow you to quickly dismantle the equipment or change its angle of inclination. In this article, we will discuss in detail the design features of the holders, the criteria for the selection of materials and the nuances of installation on different types of transverses.
Choosing a specific solution, you need to take into account not only the diameter of the pipe, but also the type of surface to which the installation will be made. Aluminum alloys And stainless steel is a leader in the production of these systems because of its strength and resistance to corrosion, and a competent installation ensures that you focus on fishing, not constantly twisting loose screws.
Design features of fastenings for inflatable boats
The main difference between PVC boat anchorages is that they are versatile, and because inflatable vessels often do not have a hard-to-use sensor space, the system is used. mechanical-clampThe design usually consists of a base that is attached to the board or transom and a vertical bar on which the device itself is mounted, an important element is a fixation mechanism that must withstand constant shaking.
Many anglers prefer to use holders with the ability to adjust the angle of inclination quickly, which allows you to compensate for the boat's different load or speed. Turning mechanisms They're often equipped with spring elements that quench impacts on the water surface, and the reliability of the hinge joints directly affects the durability of the entire system.
It's worth noting that there are models designed for inflatable tubes and hard transom versions, the former requiring special care to avoid damaging the cylinder material with sharp metal edges, the latter being more massive, but providing better stability at high speeds.
Effects of vibration on electronics
Constant high-frequency vibration can cause the contacts inside the sonar board to unfrozen, and a high-quality sounder must have rubber gaskets that quench these vibrations, prolonging the life of the device.
Material choice: aluminum, plastic or steel
The durability of the fastener depends on the materials used. Aluminum alloys (e.g., duraluminum) are the most popular choice because of the optimal weight-to-strength ratio: they don't rust, they're easy to process and they look aesthetically pleasing, but cheap alloys can be oxidized in salt water if they don't have an anodic coating.
Stainless steel is used to make the most important parts, such as the screws of the pins and the axles of the hinges. Steel structures are heavier, which may be a disadvantage for light inflatable boats, but they have maximum strength. Plastic elements They are often found in budget models or in places that do not experience high loads, but their reliability at full speed is questionable.
When choosing, consider the quality of the edges treatment. Sharp burrs on metal can damage not only your hands, but also the fabric of the boat when you install it carelessly. rod It must be smooth, without defects in casting or welding.
- 🔩 Aluminum is lightweight, does not rust, is optimal for most tasks.
- ⚓ Stainless steel - maximum strength, but greater weight of the structure.
- 🛡️ Plastic is a low price, but the risk of breakage when hit or strong clamp.
The optimal choice for a PVC boat is a combined design: an aluminum bar and steel screws mounting with plastic linings to protect the boat.
Types of installation: transom and onboard
The way you install the holder depends on your boat design and personal preferences. Tranza installation It's considered classic and the most reliable, and the rigid transom provides a fixed platform, which is critical for a clear image on the sounder screen, in which case the strubbine covers the top edge of the transom and is fixed by the screws.
The onboard mounting option involves mounting a bracket on an inflatable cylinder, using special platforms that are glued or sewn to the cylinder, or clamping systems that cover the cylinder around the circle, which is convenient because it does not take up space on the transom, where often it is so close to the engine and fuel tank.
There are also universal systems that allow you to move the holder from side to transom, they are equipped with adapters and additional attachment elements, and it is important to understand that the onboard installation on an inflated boat is always less stable due to the mobility of the cylinder itself.
Technical specifications and compatibility
When buying a holder, you need to consider the technical parameters of your sonar. The weight of the device is the determining factor: light models up to 1 kg will withstand most mounts, while heavy combines require reinforced structures. Load capacity Strubcines should exceed the weight of the sonar at least 1.5-2 times to ensure a margin of safety.
The diameter of the pipe also plays a role: standard holders are designed for pipes with a diameter of 22-25 mm, but there are also reinforced versions under 30 mm or more. Diameter mismatch can lead to backlashes or inability to install.
Below is a table that helps to orient in choosing the type of fastening depending on the specifications of the equipment:
| Type of sonar | Weight (approximate) | Recommended material | Type of installation |
|---|---|---|---|
| Budget single-beam | up to 0.8 kg | Aluminum/Plastic | Onboard/Transche |
| Middle class (2 rays) | 0.8 - 1.5 kg | aluminum | Trants |
| Professional (GPS/Map) | more than 1.5 kg | Stainless steel | Trans reinforced |
If you are planning to upgrade the sonar in the future, buy a holder with a margin of safety and universal VESA mount or standard for marine instruments.
Instructions for the installation of the holder
The right installation is a guarantee of safety and long service of the equipment. Before starting work, make sure that the boat is securely fixed. If you mount the holder on a transom, first try on the rod without puffing to assess the geometry of the installation. Altitude adjustment It should allow the sensor to be immersed to a sufficient depth, but not interfere with rowing or moving on the boat.
When attached to an inflatable cylinder, use protective pads. Sharp metal parts should not touch the PVC fabric. Tighten the screws evenly, making sure that the balloon does not deform excessively at the contact point. For transaxial mounting, use rubber pads between the metal and the wood (or plastic) of the transom to avoid rubbing the coating.
After installation, be sure to conduct water test tests, check if the structure is shifting during sharp maneuvers or shocks to the wave. If you notice a backlash, tighten the connections or use additional locks, such as grover washers or a thread lock.
☑️ Installation verification
⚠️ Attention: Never leave the sonar on the holder when transporting a boat in a deflated state. The pressure of the folded elements can break the screen or damage the sensor.
Maintenance and protection against corrosion
The aquatic environment, especially the salty environment, has an aggressive effect on metal structures. rod It's made of anodized aluminum, and regular maintenance will extend its life, and after every fishing, it's recommended that you wash the fastener with fresh water, removing any salt, sand and silt.
Mobile joints (hinges, adjustment screws) require periodic lubrication. Use special lubricants for marine equipment that are not washed away with water and do not destroy rubber seals. Silicone lubricants They are well suited to protect rubber elements from drying and cracking.
Check the condition of fasteners regularly. Vibration has the ability to unwind even well-tightened joints. If you notice the first signs of corrosion (white plaque on aluminum or rusty dots on steel), clean the damaged area and cover it with a protective compound.
⚠️ Attention: Do not use aggressive chemicals or abrasive sponges to clean the holder, as it can damage the protective coating of the metal, which will accelerate corrosion.
⚠️ Attention: When storing a boat in winter, it is better to dismantle the sonar holder to avoid deformation of spring elements from prolonged static stress.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I use a homemade sounder for a sonar?
Yes, many anglers make their own mounts from a profile pipe or corners, but it is important to ensure that the structure is sufficiently rigid and that quality materials are water resistant. Homemade options often win in price, but they can be inferior to factory ones in ergonomics and adjustability.
How to prevent the sounder from falling into the water?
Use a safety tether (belt) that is attached to the holder at one end and the other to the device body, a simple precaution that will save the equipment in the event of a clamp breakage or accidental impact, and regularly check the puff of the main locking screw.
Will a holder from one brand be suitable for a sonar from another?
Most of the time, yes, because there are mounting standards for marine electronics. However, always check the seat diameter and weight limits. Some manufacturers use unique quick-removal systems that may not be compatible with their counterparts.
Do I need to remove the sounder sensor in winter?
Yes, the sensor (transducer) is better to shoot and store in a warm dry place, plastic in the cold becomes brittle, and the residue of water inside the cable can freeze and damage the insulation or crystal of the emitter.