Downriggers and voltages

[wade macdonald]

gentlemen I need some help kindly.I just bought a couple of downriggers [cannon 10 mag ts ] and upon reading into them apparentlly they allow a small amount of voltage out around the boat . how do I know that there isn't something messed up on the boat thats leaking a voltage before I install them and if so how do I check . or am I just being a newbie. Thank you in advance. MERRY CHRISTMAS and HAPPY NEWYEAR . The Northern Breeze {my boats name }

[borderline 350]

Dear WM,

If your boat is leaking stray voltage when in the water, metallic underwater parts..I.E. lower units, propellors, struts, thru hull fittings will show signs of pitting, especially when using stainless steel props. (ON A FIBERGLASS BOAT) If aluminum hull, severe pitting will be observed in numerous areas. Gets very complicated in a hurry. The NW (US) salmon trollers came up with the "black box" voltage device in the 1980's and the idea has merit. What kind and how much are deep dark secrets which causes heated discussions and opinions! I believe in it! Salt water fishermen spend a lot of money on all kinds of underwater gear to "raise fish" Don't worry about measuring it unless you have signs of corrosion damage. Beware of shorepower connections and generators, they can really add to the problem!

Sincerely, Jet Boat Bill

[waterlogged]

If you have or know someone with a digital voltmeter you can measure between the battery negative terminal and each downrigger cable while it's in the water. This will tell you if you are in the ball park or over the fence.

[wade macdonald]

Again thank-you gentlemen

[Misty IV]

I was at a seminar last weekend and learned that an ideal voltage around your boat for kings is 0.65 volts. A typical volt meter can give you readings and allow you to adjust as needed. The black boxes are an excellent way to fine-tune your output.

[REELJERKS]

I picked up the Cabelas black box last year. If you look under fishing pictures "SPREAD" you will see the white wires going to my port and starboard downriggers, also notice the springs where the boom meets the rigger body.

http://www.scotty.com/marine/support/PD ... 202003.pdf

http://www.cabelas.com/cabelas/en/templ ... hasJS=true

http://www.lakeontariounited.com/fishin ... php?t=4131

Mark