Lowrance Elite 7 Instalation

[BassKnuckles]

So I just picked up 2 Lowrance Elite 7 units and I have no idea what I'm doing when it come's down to installing them. Here are my questions so far.

1. Do I need to purchase 2 GPS pucks? One for each unit or can they be networked together some how.

  a. Is there any other parts I need to network them if that is the way to go.

2. I would love to mount the one in my dash and move the analog gauges around. Is there any local places or does anyone know how to do this?

3. I found out I need to buy 2 lake chips. Any recommendations? I've been told to get a Navionics Plus because the processor speed on the Elites are not the greatest. Those cards are like $200 each 

4. Any other tips that I might need to know?

 

It's been a long summer and haven't had my boat out once yet this year. Mainly work and I was waiting to be able to afford these. I don't think I will have them installed in time this year but I'm crossing my fingers to get out at least once.

 

Thanks!

[delcecchi]

gps built in.   If they are the combo units.  I don't think any elite 7 is made for use with external gps puck.

I am running the lowrance insite which is like lakemaster and the elite 7 handles it ok.  I have never noticed any issue with processor speed, but I only go like 35 mph. 

I have mine on ram mounts, one on console and one on bow. 

Moving gauges and mounting in the dash would be big job involving fabricating a new piece of aluminum or something for the front of the dash, since the old one is full of holes that wouldn't be in the right place.  My dash wouldn't have room anyway. 

 

[marine_man]

Del has you headed the right direction here...

Make sure you fuse (in line power variety or the fuse block) the power supply for the locators, try and give yourself some adjustment of the transducer on the back of the boat to adjust it up / down to find the right spot to read while on plane, but not so deep that you have a huge rooster tale coming up the back of the boat

Take your time... you'll be happier in the long run!

marine_man

[delcecchi]

I have one transducer on the transom and the other is the us2 on trolling motor.  I lose the 800 kHz mode, I am OK with that. 

[delmuts]

I agree with using ram mounts instead of messing up your dash!! The location of them can be a challenge thou.

 The front one won't be hard other than to be sure it doesn't interfere with your nav. lights and trolling motor cable.( if you have one)

 But  on the dash! I sat in my Ranger several times trying to figure out where to mount mine. Finally mounted it to the  gunnel next to the dash. Placed it so I could see it with out having to look away from driving, and it folds down between the dash and gunnel for protection while going down the hy way.  

 Take some time sitting in your rig, and you'll figure out the best place.