Humminbird 899 Transducer installation

[bkerschner70]

My new boat is being rigged now and they are installing the transducer for my 899 this week. When I asked if I should have them install it on a mounting plate they said that they've heard that it's best to mount it directly to the boat because I will get interference from the plate. Is this the case? I see a lot of boats with the plate and it would be nice if I ever have to change transducers to not put any more holes in the boat. Also wondering what is required to hook my 859 on the bow to my 899 and terrova ipilot link. My 899 is linked to the terrova but I'm told it's another $400 in parts just to connect the 859...

[h8go4s]

My new boat is being rigged now and they are installing the transducer for my 899 this week. When I asked if I should have them install it on a mounting plate they said that they've heard that it's best to mount it directly to the boat because I will get interference from the plate. Is this the case? I see a lot of boats with the plate and it would be nice if I ever have to change transducers to not put any more holes in the boat. Also wondering what is required to hook my 859 on the bow to my 899 and terrova ipilot link. My 899 is linked to the terrova but I'm told it's another $400 in parts just to connect the 859...

That's totally wrong. Always use a transducer mounting board.

[delmuts]

I only used a mounting board on one boat, and never had any problems.

[fivebucks]

I mounted my bird transducer to the cutting board type material mounting bracket and I don't think I have any interference. I would call Humminbird directly to get their answer.

[delcecchi]

If the board doesn't stick down below the bottom of the boat at any point, I can't imagine it having any effect.

[marine_man]

If / when installed correctly installing on a transducer board should have no impact on performance.

marine_man

[bkerschner70]

Thanks everybody. The dealer really insisted that they do not like to use the mounting boards so they are mounting straight to the transom. I plan to hold onto this boat for a long time so when the time comes to upgrade electronics I will seal the old holes and most likely add a board at that time. For now I think the 899 should last a while though.

[h8go4s]

And I thought the customer was always right. Who is this dealer? What color is the sky in the world he lives in?

[bkerschner70]

After all that, I picked up the boat on Friday and they did use a mounting board even after telling me it was better to mount it to the transom...

[h8go4s]

Good. But don't be surprised if you have to tweak the transducer location and/or tilt once you get it in the water, especially if it's a SI unit.

[delmuts]

"Good. But don't be surprised if you have to tweak the transducer location and/or tilt once you get it in the water, especially if it's a SI unit."

Agreed. The nice thing is now; you don't have to drill any other holes in your boat! The board gets the abuse.