DIY: Removable Kayak Transducer Mount

Originally posted on September 17th, 2012 on WormInACan.com.

The instructions below detail how I created my transducer mount to attach my Humminbird side imaging transducer to my Wilderness Systems Commander 120. After exploring multiple options for mounting the transducer, I couldn’t find a solution that met my needs so I sought inspiration from other implementations and came up with my own. I wanted my mount to:

• Be Completely Removable
• Create Minimal Drag
• Be Protected From Objects in the Water
• Have A Clear Line of Sight on Both Sides

The transducer I came up with uses the existing threaded holes for the rudder on Wilderness Systems kayaks. It is quickly assembled and easy to remove.

Materials Needed

• 1/4-20 x 2″ Carriage/Step Bolt (Qty. 1)
• 1″ Ram Double Socket Arm
• 1″ YakAttack Screwball (Qty. 2)
• 3/4″ Deep PVC Coupler
• 3/4″ PVC Plugs
• PVC Glue
• 12″ 1/4-20 Threaded Rod
• 1/4″ Lock Nut

Step 1: Cut the Screwball to Length

Using a Dremel, bandsaw or hacksaw, cut off the 1/4-20 x 2″ carriage/step bolt to roughly 1 5/8″ and hand screw it into one of the YakAttack Screwballs (set aside). To ensure the correct length, you can screw it into the rudder hole on the back of your kayak, and mark where to cut off the excess.

Step 2: Glue the PVC Capsule

Glue the 3/4″ PVC Plugs into the 3/4″ Deep PVC Coupler. This creates what would appear to be a closed capsule.

Step 3: Drill Center Hole in Capsule

Use a 1/4″ bit to drill a hole in the center of each cap. An easy way to start your hole in the center is to place the other Screwball on the center of the cap, and tap a punch or nail in the center of the Screwball to mark your starting point.

Step 4: Attach Threaded Rod to Transducer

Using a Dremel, bandsaw or hacksaw, cut the 1/4″ threaded rod to roughly 5 1/4″. Begin threading the rod into the existing center hole of the plastic bracket that comes with the Humminbird transducer.

You may need use a smaller drill bit to widen the hole to allow the rod to thread easier. Use a pair of channel locks with a thick rag over the jaws to turn the rod without ruining the threading. Place the 1/4″ locknut snuggly on the bottom of the rod.

Step 5: Thread Capsule on to Threaded Rod

Place the PVC capsule you created onto the threaded bar.

Step 6: Thread 2nd Screwball onto Shaft

Place the 2nd Screwball on top of the threaded bar and tighten.

Step 7: Prepare Kayak

Remove the existing screws included with your Wilderness Systems kayak for the rudder.

Step 8: Attach Screwball to Kayak

Screw the Screwball created in Step 1 firmly into the top hole.

Step 9: Attach Ram Arm

Attach the Ram arm to the screwball pointing down.

Step 10: Paint and Attach

Attach the assembled transducer. I chose to paint mine black using a flat spray paint.