Mounting Transducer

[fivebucks]

Just got a Humminbird 698ci si and instructions say to mount on starboard side (right side looking from rear) however this is the side of my transom mount trolling motor so I would think that would interfere with the transducer. Do you think there will be enough prop disturbance on the port side to reduce the effectiveness of the unit? While I am traveling 20-30 mph I would mainly be interested in depth. This might just be a try it and see and if it doesn't work figure something out from there.

[h8go4s]

Here's a quote from another HSOforum that is specifically about HB units.

"It would be a mistake if you had an inboard prop and the transducer was mounted farther aft of it. The rotation of the prop could cause aerated water to flow over the transducer. With outboard motors your only concern would be if you are in reverse (back trolling?). Otherwise it is all about the cable reaching, the convenience of installing the transducer on one side versus the other and trying to keep the transducer cable away from the motor (in case of electrical interference)."

Use a mounting board so you can adjust the ducer location without drilling extra holes in your transom.

[fivebucks]

Thanks. I will probably mount it on the port side and hope for the best. I don't need side imaging when traveling to spots.

[delmuts]

I would suggest you go to the Hum web site and check out the pictures of where and how other guys mounted their transducers. Great info there.

Also. I made great use of the side imaging when cruising from area to area. You'd be surprised what you may find.

[h8go4s]

Thanks. I will probably mount it on the port side and hope for the best. I don't need side imaging when traveling to spots.

That's one of the great benefits of SI. You find things you won't with 2d sonar. It might take some adjusting, but it's worth the time. You paid big bucks for it, use it to its full potential. Mine works at top speed which is 28 mph on my boat. I've seen screen caps of SI done at 40 mph.

[fivebucks]

Good to know. I mounted it yesterday according to the instructions with the only difference I mounted it on the port side vs. the starboard side. I just couldn't see it working very good on the starboard side with the trolling motor below it. I need to get it on the water now to fine tune the position.

[delmuts]

One other thing to keep in mind when you are on the water. Is the position of your lower unit. On my Ranger 680 I had to keep the lower unit tilted up some so the S.I. would have a clear opening to the other side. Will be curious when I get my new alum. bass boat to see how things work.

[fivebucks]

I can see that happening. Just have to get on the water and play around with it. Thanks for the replies.