Graph Install Advice

[dkinney6]

Just upgraded my bow unit from a 9 to a 12 through a trade in program. Planning to flush mount the 12 inch graph where the 9 was mounted using the same bow plate on a 2020 Ranger Z520L. Would appreciate any advice on how to cut the plate to the bigger size when it is already cut for the 9. I have the install template for the 12, but don't know if removing the plate entirely and cutting it at the workbench is preferred/easier than doing it on the boat. Any advice on how to best cut the plate in terms of tools and location is appreciated. Never cut one, so I don't know how hard they are to cut or work with. Trying to think it through before I start and screw it up...

[wmitch2]

Remove the panel and use a Rotary Saw to enlarge the hole. You could also us a Jig Saw, it's just easier and cleaner with the Rotary Saw.

[dkinney6]

Thought about that. Got a recommendation on the bit. I think all I have is drywall lying around.

[howieranger]

Trimming that thin aluminum is hard to neatly without a nibbler. I would just order the proper plate from Ranger.

[dkinney6]

Hmm. Didn't know they would sell them pre-cut. Worth a call to check it out. Have you bought one this way?

[howieranger]

Yes I have in the past when you could walk in and Sherrie K would take care of you and they were not expensive.

[jc2bg]

You’re not far from Knox Marine, Darryl, and they are experts at that particular task. Ask for Mike Steele. Having Mike take care of it for you would guarantee it’s done right and probably cost less than a replacement panel.

[dkinney6]

Yeah. I was just up there last week getting the boat winterized with Mark. I'm going to give him and Mike a call. I could probably just take the plate up to them, but I like to piddle with stuff on my own sometimes. (They usually fix my screwups!!) I just know how busy they are and don't want to be a PITA! :) Respect those guys so much. Been with them 15 years.

[besnyde]

I've cut several myself with a jigsaw, they are easy to cut. If you do it, be careful not to bend the plate, they bend easily if you are not cutting on a flat surface. Otherwise, you do have the lip of the unit that will hide the roughness of the cut and you will never see it again as long as you didn't cut too far outside the line. Measure twice.

[jimsch]

Tape both sides of the panel, layout the opening and jigsaw with a fine tooth blade from the back side. A light deburring is all that is needed. Done several this way.

[wmitch2]

delete

[DoctorJJ]

Tape both sides of the panel, layout the opening and jigsaw with a fine tooth blade from the back side. A light deburring is all that is needed. Done several this way.

I was just going to say this. Tape! Easier to mark your layout and you won’t have scratches or scuffs from the base of your jigsaw.

[PrecisionSonar]

Depending on the model of the Ranger, we can help you if you decide not to flush mount the unit.

Ranger L Bow Replacement Plate with Gimbal Holes | Precision Sonar
Ranger C Bow Replacement Plate with Gimbal Holes | Precision Sonar

[dkinney6]

Thanks for all the advice. Will probably keep it flush mount for now and then invest in a stackable mount when I get a second graph up there. Baby steps...