Overview

The Garmin SS60 is a thru-hull transducer rated at 600 W that runs at 50/200 kHz and connects via an 8-pin plug.

It is intended for fiberglass and wood hulls and uses a tilted element so the sonar beam stays closer to vertical without needing a fairing. It is listed with a depth range of 800 to 1,200 ft and beamwidths of 45 degrees at 50 kHz and 12 degrees at 200 kHz.

This is a good match for boaters who want traditional dual-frequency sonar for cruising and fishing and prefer a clean thru-hull install over a transom mount.

Key features

• 600 W traditional sonar transducer with dual-frequency 50/200 kHz operation.
• Listed depth range of 800 to 1,200 ft for bottom tracking and fishfinding in a wide range of conditions.
• Beamwidths listed at 45 degrees (50 kHz) and 12 degrees (200 kHz) for broad coverage and tighter target focus.
• Tilted element style helps keep the beam closer to vertical without a fairing.
• Thru-hull mounting format for a clean, permanent installation.
• Intended for fiberglass and wood hull construction.
• 8-pin connection for compatible Garmin sonar and fishfinder systems.

Variants

The SS60 is offered in multiple tilt angles to match different hull deadrise at the mounting location.

The tilt angle changes the internal element orientation so the beam points more vertically after installation. Match the tilt to the hull angle where the transducer will sit.

• 010-11868-20: Tilt 0 degree. Works for mounting areas with little deadrise where the unit sits close to level.
• 010-11868-21: Tilt 12 degree. A common mid-range option when the hull has noticeable deadrise at the install point.
• 010-11868-22: Tilt 20 degree. Suits steeper deadrise locations where extra compensation helps keep the beam centered.

Compatibility and fit

Confirm your display or sonar module supports a 600 W 50/200 kHz transducer and accepts an 8-pin transducer connection before ordering. Hull material matters here as well, since this model is intended for fiberglass and wood hulls.

Installation and setup

A thru-hull install involves drilling the hull and sealing the housing correctly. Plan for inside access to tighten the retaining nut, route the cable to the helm or sonar module, and bed the fitting so it stays watertight through bilge moisture, vibration, and regular washdowns.

For clean readings at speed, place the transducer where water flow stays smooth, away from strakes, steps, intakes, and other fittings that can introduce turbulence or aeration.

On-board use notes

50 kHz is typically used for broader coverage and deeper water, while 200 kHz narrows the beam for better target separation in shallower depths. Actual performance is influenced by hull shape, installation quality, electrical noise on board, and sea conditions.

After saltwater use, rinse the exposed face and check the thru-hull seal during routine inspections and haul-outs.