How to Mount a Compass

Installation of a boat compass involves more than just finding a free location and bolting the unit to the boat. Protection, visibility, access and boat steering all need to be considered for a compass to be useful. You must also consider whether existing equipment will disrupt how the compass operates; this may make some locations impractical. Because the installation involves serious changes to the boat furniture, planning appropriately the first time can help avoid costly mistakes.

Things You'll Need

  • Compass template
  • Permanent marker
  • Power drill and 1/4-inch bit
  • Jigsaw power saw
  • Screws
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Instructions

    • 1

      Position the fixing template, which comes with the compass kit, where you will most likely want the compass to be. Try sitting in various locations to determine whether you can see the compass correctly.

    • 2

      Examine the infrastructure of the location to determine whether there is any metal equipment or framing nearby that may disturb compass readings. See if the compass reading changes as you try different locations. Continue testing until you find a location that does not involve a disturbance and is visually accessible for navigation.

    • 3

      Position the template. Use masking tape to keep it in place. Mark the drill holes on the boat body using a permanent marker. Mark the circle or cavity that will need to be cut for the compass body.

    • 4

      Make your first drill hole with a power drill and ¼-inch bit. Drill the corner holes according to the template design. Remove the drill and insert a jigsaw power saw. Cut out the cavity using your markings.

    • 5

      Take the compass assembly and insert it into the freshly cut cavity to check the fit. Remove the assembly and place a mounting gasket between the compass and the hole edges. Reinsert the compass.

    • 6

      Insert wood screws or bolts into the corners of the compass assembly. Tighten down the compass to the boat body so it won’t move or fall out. Use the power drill to drive home the screws.