I would also add that if you're going to do this, make sure your boat is loaded out how you normally would have it loaded and I'd run about half a tank, that way whether you got a full tank or low tank, the margin of error will be small. Most guys already have their boats loaded up but I know a lot of guys that will take their boat out with very little just because they're excited about their new purchase. Great video!
The first time I tried this I purchased a small level that measures the angle in degrees from horizontal when you level it out ,so you just record the offset and then replicate the angle back on dryland. Most recently, I simply set the trolling motor on auto pilot\or have a buddy navigate for you and take your transduce in the mount and hold it against the transom and adjust the angle so its level with the surface of the water, then tilt it down just a tad to minimize cavitation if you want it to still work at higher speeds. I also installed an adjustable transducer holder to I can infinitley adjust the vertical depth of the transducer to find the exact best verticle depth for the type of performance you want. ie eliminate rooster tails, improve high speed readings or slow troll. and you can change it any time and raise it out of the way to protect it
Thanks for the setup info. I thought my HDS was working well until I used your video to fine tune it. It really made a difference! Thanks for the help!!!
Thank you Sir i just purchased lowrance hook2 tripleshot with that long transducer and that was my biggest concern.Perfect thank you s o much. God Bless and safe boating.
Appreciate the tip. It is also important to put the change under the level at the same spot. I plan to line mine up so it is even with the back of the level. Pretty sure mine is too far down since it looks level when trailering.
Thanks man I have not been getting as good a signal as my brother and wondering how to get a better adjustment. I will be using this procedure my next time out.
Thanks for the info! I used a phone app that measures angles down to the tenth of a degree. I found it a little easier than using the coins and a level.
@@TX_Nupe lowrance hds-9 two units ! They seem good ! Deeper water 10 ft and more they are very clear ! Any unit in real shallow isnt very clear ! Especially side images!
Noticed you had the mount on transom with slots looked below the bottom of the boat. I just installed my Garman plus 7 SV where the bottom of the skimmer is even with bottom surface but now I'm getting rooster tail at speed, and cavitation at full open hole shot.... Have to feather the throttle to get up on plane. So yours looks way under the bottom of your boat. And in yours with the mount it would seem like a water disturbance for the transducer as well as the prop for possible cavitation. I just need to know about the skimmer bottom relative position at the nose if it, and I glad I happened on your leveling technique. Other than rooster tail mine seemed to work. Even at speed up to about 35 mph.
Gene I have a 2d transducer epoxied into the bilge for speed. I'm using the transducer on the back for si/di only. The larger si/di transducers just don't work well at speed in most cases.
Adjusted my transducer using your method. Transducer looks somewhat high on the trailing end. We had a Garmin Echomap 94SV installed. Great features but so far the Side scanning is totally garbage. Have had a variety of comments good and bad on Facebook by others who own this unit. Several said it works great and all kinds of detail. The detail I'm getting is basically no detail just garbage screens. Garmin Support had me change a few settings and move the transducer cable. I possibly have interference to the transducer cable. I also bought a Ferrite Coil that clamps on the cable. Not sure if that will do it. I know it will help to have the transducer at the right angle. Never had any of these problems with our 2009 Humminbird unit.
Bob I'm afraid Garmin has a long way to go in the Di/Si imaging before they are close to the others. I have run them all and Humminbird is the best Si with a dead heat on the Di screen between Lowrance and Humminbird. Garmin is bringing up the rear and has almost been lapped. I have no issues with Garmin and the Panoptix is interesting but I can't recommend them at this time.
Pickwick Marine Electronics I actually have told Garmin and the shop I got our Garmin from that even on a bad day the Humminbird Side Imaging is way better. No replies back.
I commented to Garmin Support person after being told my screen shots looked normal, that even on a bad day our 2009 Humminbird did a way better job of side imaging. Garmin has some great features but I'm disappointed with the Side imaging. One Garmin feature I wish all manufacturers would do. I bought a Garmin lake map. I had to use a Garmin application to logon and register the card. Then I got the option to copy the map to a Mini SD card. I took the 32GB card out of my unit and copied to it. Afterwards I was able to use all my built in map, Lake map, recorded maps all off the same card. No switching cards. That is a really great feature. I can leave the card I bought at home and use it later if I had to. I would like to see better side imaging and a few things improved still.
I spent greatly for a helix 10 for DI and SI. I also installed a new 360 Humminbird. The 2D sonar is beautiful. The rest of it really sucks, and even after buying cue cards from the Technological Angler, I can't get it adjusted. My marina (very experienced) installed my transducer on my bass tracker on the upper step right beside my speedometer mount. Is my problem because of too much turbulence? Should I move there transducer down to the indented step of the transducer? Can you advise me here? Thank you.
Would you happen to have a way to install a transducer on a minnkota PowerDrive? I put one on but I’ll really have to watch the cabling... my ol Terrova had a groove to run the cable through but this one doesn’t... thanks and great video!
I'm not understanding this concept. The level deal with the pocket change to get level I get. But how does that get your transducer level? I didn't see you putting penny's on the transducer or adjusting it with penny's or a the penny's.
Hi there, This is a good way to mount tranducers.I agree that you shall lift the tranducer a little bit in the back end, because when you drive the bout and the boat rice in front, the angle of the tranducer will be wrong. I always mount tranducers like that and it works very good her in Lofoten of Norway. Now i have mounted my new Garmin GT23M-TM and i will test it in february to april at deep saltwater fishing after big Cod (skrei).
Thanks so much for the video. i also have the triple shot transducer on my fiberglass boat. Can you tell me how high or low the transducer should be mounted? I currently do not get readings at traveling speed. I have seen a video where the guy uses a square to position the bottom of the transducer to be level with the bottom of the boat....Is this correct? Thanks so much!
Well i just got off the water and used 7 quarters to get the bubble leveled out, but didn't put the boat in gear to see. Anyway I came back to the house and tried to jack the boat up...that bubble didn't even budge....so I really need to find some extra blocks and wood to get it right...I don't suppose you took a photo of what you had under your wheel???
So I did the leveling on water and got my stack of coins, came home and leveled the boat with the coins. My problem is, with my lowrance transducer, it has the plastic teeth type locking devices on each side when in the bracket and won't allow me to level it properly to like the boat is. Do you have any recommendations for that?
Got both transducers on the boat. Works pretty good. The 2D Sonar works fine when trolling etc. On plane seems to fad out but still visible. I think a strake on the bottom of the boat might be causing that. I moved the 2D transducer over farther and remounted. I tried to get half of the transducer below the bottom of the boat. Also level with the bottom of the boat. The Si is adjusted for the level of the boat while trolling. That seems to be perfect. Any advice on the 2D what should the angle be and half ways below the bottom of the boat on the low side of the transducer. The bottom of the boat is flat in the center and then angled up to each side. I have a fiber transducer plate.
Hi. Does the transducer not get effected physically when driving at high speed on the water? mine causes a big rooster tail when going quicker than idling speed. do I need to move my transducer?
It can cause a rooster tail depending on mounting location. In this case there is a high speed transducer in the bilge and the transducer is mounted high enough to be out of the water at speed.
I have side imaging, down imaging unit, where should I place the transducer? Above, between, or under the bottom of the boat ? I tried placed between the boat’s bottom and water line, It cause water slashed into my outboard . Thanks
Andy it's tough to tell without seeing the boat. There is a humminbird tips and tricks facebook group. If you post a picture of the transom it will be seen and you will get some suggestions. I don't always chime in but if I see that folks aren't giving the best of information I post.
I have a Tracker 195 TXW. Currently my transducer is mounted on the lower portion of transom but I feel like it needs to be a little higher. Can transducer be mounted on upper part of transom ?
Great video. Best I've seen when trying to set up a totalscan transducer. I have a Lowrance 7ti on a 89 Ranger. Sidescan is great but downscan and 2d looks like crap when setting still. They both look good when moving though. Do you think I need more adjustment or is this common? I have a elite 7 chirp on the trolling motor with a HDI transducer that reads great. Also does it matter which direction the transducer is facing? I've seen them mounted both ways and I know you can flip the side scan in the settings.
Wow, I had gone to grab my 3 ton jack and almost had it maxed out, but was able to get the bubble in the center of the level. I hope that I will be able to see arches after this experiment.
I would like to run my fish finder on my ski doo ( ice fishing) just for the GPS maps, what do I do with the transducer unplug it or leave it plugged in
Does this method help on a small 12-13 foot inflatable which is going to have its level affected by even small ocean chop or swell, any recommendations for small boats or is it not an issue for SI quality in your experience? I have a Helix8 G3N mega+.
I would level it as you would normally run it. It's not much different than most boats as loads and conditions change almost every trip. The Helix 8 is the best "bang for the buck" unit on the market of any brand out there.
Thanks Hopefully this will make an improvement on my helix. I have a kicker on the same side of the transducer, would that make a difference? because my fish finder is not working properly. its not clear and no signal of fish even tho i saw some.
If one of these larger transducers is angled down too far it's also going to act a bit like a trim tab isnt it and cause the boat to list a smidge? I think I have that problem
Hey James, is there a way to do this with a transducer that’s mounted to a jack plate on a transducer shield saver? Don’t seem like there’s a way to adjust them
I don't do a lot with the TSS products but the last one I installed I drilled the holes in the bracket larger to get the correct angle and them used a stainless fender washer to cover the hole. Last time I checked they did nave some triangle shims also.
So since your Lowrance ducer was too far down in the garage, what did you end up doing to raise it up a little to match what the attitude of boat is in the water?
Its a great tip, but the conditions on the water could vary greatly depending on weight distribution, fuel in the tank, etc. How do you compensate...or is it still just an "in the ball park" adjustment?
I have found the "front/back leveling is the most important when it comes to clear images. In my measurements on different boats and loads it really doesn't change much. The tendency for the boat to lean left/right is more pronounced and not much can be done about that. There is a video of a bracket a guy in Australia that made a bracket with a simple left/right adjustment. It was a well thought out and made design but he had no intentions of selling them. It was also fairly large and would be a tough sell to most folks. FWIW I have found that on the majority of boats about a 4 degree tilt to the boat with the transducer set at level produces good images.
I am putting a SI humminbird unit on my pontoon boat. the starboard pontoon has a bracket on it with a void in it where the pump for the live well sets. my questions are: how far below the bracket should the nose of the transducer sit, and will the void where the pump fits cause problems for the transducer, reading wise? the bottom of the bracket is even with the bottom of the pontoon tube. Thanks.
I've got a helix 9 si kvd that is reading blank and won't show trees, rocks, etc. will only show depth shading when going over a point or when the depth changes. Transducer is mounted level with the ground not the boat so hoping this solves my issue!
The mount is a Cisco Fishing Systems mount. It's the $129 model. The plate it's on was built for me by a local shop. You should have received a reply via Facebook when you sent me the question?? If not let me know please so I can see if there is an issue with my FB page.
I've seen people break in cars for less change than that--great video. SO- I guess this is about getting the transducer parallel with the gunnells? I see how many coins it takes to get that level (on the sides) and then I mount the transducer at the same angle? I need to rewatch the video. The little and big lowrance xducers are adjustable right? So when I get the boat in the water I can make small adjustments? thank you!!
I have a tiller outboard and move to the front and use my trolling motor so that is 180 # moving to the front of my 14 ft Jon.Your saying this would work for me?Where should I check level ?Should I check with me in the middle of boat since I use sonar from the back and front at times and move my unit with me, but transducer is on transom?thanks
Since this mainly involves helping clear up the SI I would set it from the rear. If you are only using one transducer there may have to be some adjustment so that it works well at speed.
I do not have side imaging.Will this still help with DI and traditional sonar?Also, are you familiar with Lowrance Elite 7 chirp machines?Been having issues with the screen freezing.Not sure if that means it looses bottom or what?I actually got a replacement unit and transducer and have same issue.Heard of others with these having same issue.
I'm not familiar with the Elite machines. If the screen keeps freezing I would check the power supply. Make sure you have good connections straight to the battery and fused on the positive side. Leveling a transducer isn't as important with the Di/2d machines but it sure won't hurt.
Good video. But is this only relevant for 'prospecting' at slow speed/idle? I wonder if adjusted this way, the change in the angle when planning at speed may interfere with the depth readout!
David it will cause the loss of high speed readings in most cases. Since Si came out the best way to mount these units is with a y-cable, the Si transducer and a 2d high speed transducer if mounted externally. If on a glass boat use a bilge mount 2d transducer.
Thanks very much for info. Not running s/s right now. But know what I have to do when I upgrade system. However I can fit a once redundant unit for depth purposes only and therefor, would you suggest your method for traditional sonar and downscan. I have a Lowrance 83/200/455/800 transom mount?
Sorry I didn't see your question earlier. I'm honestly not sure what it would change on Di units. I haven't thought about it before. I can't see where it would make it worse though :-)
As an aside, can you speak to the SternMate(s) you are using to avoid more holes in the transom of the hull? Body shops wants about $150 per hole (x 6) to fill!
I really like the Sternmate that I have. I have had issues with the dual mount plate cracking but that is when I had two large transducers on it. If you have a bunch of old holes a transducer mounting board may work for you.
Thanks for sharing. Good info! Q1- What that the larger Sternmate? Q2Any suggestions?? As for adding the transducer board, my two ducers are screwed into the bottom the of the step region of the hull, so a board, typically attached to the back of the stern would not cover them. Q3 - Any feelings on placing then in the step region vs. out the stern? jws --------------
@@jwschroeder804 The larger sternmate is made to hang two transducer off of. I only mount the 2d sonar transducer on the step and then only on an aluminum boat. The proper installation on glass hull is the epoxy a transducer in the bilge area. If the 2d transducer is on the step already though I would leave it. The larger Si transducers need to be more protected.
I have a 93 ranger 481v with a stepped hull. I don’t want to drill into the transom or the step. I have bought a stern saver. Will I be ok to put the transducer on the back of the transom still since it won’t fit with the stern saver on the step? I have a xm 9 20 Msi t mega transom mount transducer from Humminbird. Thanks for the help and loved the video
My boat it's low in neutral in the back under speed I use the trim to bring the nose down. Now when I'm using your method scanning for fish 2 or 3 miles an hour do I want my trim all the way down to have the bow down in the water for me any other way with the trim my nose of the boat will stick up high at low speed
Is that a ranger? I have a 361 and need advice on where to mount my hb si transducer. I have a 6” jack plate and 175 mercury on back The transducer won’t fit on the step so I think I need to transom mount like this boat has correct?
Josh would you mind send me a picture or two of the transom area? I can get them through my Pickwick Marine Electronics page on Facebook. I'll be glad to look at it for you.
Will this work for at speed and just trolling for 2d ( straight down? My front Lowrance shows correct depth while the one I. The back just says 5’ and does not change
When you say the ducer is going to look high in the back when on the trailer, are you saying the back as in the end closest to transom? Also how important is perfect level from side to side for proper function. Thanks!
+Corbin Beamer The rear of the transducer farthest from the transom will look high. In fact most folks look very skeptical when they see how high it looks when they pick up their boat. Side to side is important also but its a tough call for most folks. If you set it for just a single person in the boat it will be off when two folks are in the boat. My advice is to set it for the fishing you do most.
I find that the level from side to side REALLY makes a difference when it comes to side imaging so the imaging is pretty equal on both side of the water column. If you are not near a bank and in a good relatively flat area you have 1 side that goes out nicely to 100' but the other side fades out after well say 60' you may need to try leveling your transducer left or right
First off Great idea! Thanks for sharing! I have a Lowrance Elite TI, with total scan transducer, do you know if using this method to adjust the pitch on my transducer to get a better si image will it effect the 2D image at greater speeds?
It will make a difference in all Si units. Be aware that the TI is a very good unit but the Lowrance Si has limitations with distance. It all depends on bottom composition. I see max usable range on the Lss2 transducer and the totalscan (Ti unit) of 50-60 feet in some soft bottom areas of lakes. The max I think is usable is about 100ft or so. I think the Ti with the total scan does a better job than the Gen 3 with Lss2 transducer. My opinion of course but I have run them side by side on the same targets.
Awesome video. Thanks so much. I take it when you’re back at the shop and you’ve tilted your trailer to get the bubble in the middle, you walk back and put the level on the transducer, you want to adjust your transducer up until the bubbles in the middle? Thanks again
Hi tx for the vid, how did it work in front of the prop? I have a 74 searay with a 351 inboard - installed it where ive done it before (about 10 inches to the starboard side of motor (between the side trim flap) and leveled it on both axis - i use a straight strip of wood flat underneath the hull backwards to get a line of the water direction too and line the transdicers nose right in the center of it - Just curious how it works infront of the prop - mine stops getting a signal at about 8mph and i have a rooster tail at plane. previous one i did worked 100% - this one not so :p
If you are trying to run only the Si transducer that might be a starting point for getting a reading at anything over idle. With the si transducers for many units being so large most folks run both the Si transducer and a 2d transducer. If a fiberglass boat most mount the 2d in the hull. With an aluminum many put a 2d transducer on the boat alongside the si transducer. It's much easier to get readings at speed with the smaller 2d transducer.
I do but there is interference. If I want to use both I set them to different frequencies. Even then there will be some interference. I have found that some interference bothers the fisherman more than the units.
+Freddy Roman The bracket is made by Sternmate. It can be bought at sternmate.com. They use adhesive to mount on the boat and I'm all about no holes below the water line!!
+Christopher Parker I actually have 5 transducers on the rear when doing demos. If you make sure the transducer bottoms are reasonably even with each other it works fine.
I have a totalscan tranducer for a elite 9ti on my 2012 Carolina skiff dlv and di,sonar and si looks great at idle but anything above 10-15mph it loses depth.
Excellent Video! Thank you. 1 question - is it ok to move your throttle handle forward like that on the regular? In my Lund it seems to be in the way unless I do that but I don’t know if I’m hurting anything !
My boat has a hot foot pedal for the gas so the handle goes all the way down in gear. You need the boat in idle and it doesn't matter where the level is as long as you place it in the same place at home to adjust the transducer.
I’ve had issues with my transducer for yrs. this was the best video I’ve seen & that worked. I would like to say thanks a million.
I would also add that if you're going to do this, make sure your boat is loaded out how you normally would have it loaded and I'd run about half a tank, that way whether you got a full tank or low tank, the margin of error will be small. Most guys already have their boats loaded up but I know a lot of guys that will take their boat out with very little just because they're excited about their new purchase. Great video!
The first time I tried this I purchased a small level that measures the angle in degrees from horizontal when you level it out ,so you just record the offset and then replicate the angle back on dryland. Most recently, I simply set the trolling motor on auto pilot\or have a buddy navigate for you and take your transduce in the mount and hold it against the transom and adjust the angle so its level with the surface of the water, then tilt it down just a tad to minimize cavitation if you want it to still work at higher speeds. I also installed an adjustable transducer holder to I can infinitley adjust the vertical depth of the transducer to find the exact best verticle depth for the type of performance you want. ie eliminate rooster tails, improve high speed readings or slow troll. and you can change it any time and raise it out of the way to protect it
Awesome common sense info that I wouldn't have thought of myself. Thanks for the video thumbs up!
Thanks for the setup info. I thought my HDS was working well until I used your video to fine tune it. It really made a difference! Thanks for the help!!!
Glad it helped.....
Thank you Sir i just purchased lowrance hook2 tripleshot with that long transducer and that was my biggest concern.Perfect thank you s
o much. God Bless and safe boating.
wow.... this was educational.. love the scientific approach of analyzing the boat at performance and then at shop.
make sure the coins are at the exact same location on base of level!
Appreciate the tip. It is also important to put the change under the level at the same spot. I plan to line mine up so it is even with the back of the level. Pretty sure mine is too far down since it looks level when trailering.
Great demo and explanation. Looking forward to doing this week. Thank you!
Ripper video with real life how to, thanks for sharing it with us, this will finish off my install nicely.
Cheers.
Thanks for the video. Very informative and easy to understand. I'm getting ready to install my Humminbird Helix 7 SI and will definitely use this tip.
Glad it helped
Very helpful. I also have a stern mate. Worth every penny in tweakability of ducer location and no holes!!
Sternmate is a good product for sure.
So get the lean the same as in the water in gear at idle then level the transducer. Clear simple concise and accurate. Thanks.
Thanx for the video. That's a great, simple technique that was very helpful!
Your Welcome
Great video thank you. I'm having a terrible time with my Lowrance tripleshot unit and will try this tomorrow. Thanks again.
Did that fix your Lowrance tripleshot? I have the same transducer and will not pick up anything on plane.
Glad I youtubed this before driling holes in my boat.
Thanks. Installing a new Lowrance side imager tomorrow.
Thanks for the video, I remember seeing it a while ago and thought it was the best explanation I have ever seen.
I"m mounting mine this weekend. Thank you so much for the video. Very helpful
Glad it could be helpful to you.
Thanks man I have not been getting as good a signal as my brother and wondering how to get a better adjustment. I will be using this procedure my next time out.
That’s a simple great idea, thanks I can’t wait to check my dealer installed transducer as it doesn’t seem right.
Thanks for the info! I used a phone app that measures angles down to the tenth of a degree. I found it a little easier than using the coins and a level.
I have used my phone also but didn't want to be responsible for someone loosing a phone.... lol
Dustin Dragotta what app?
ThunderCoopersmith Bubble Level on Android
So if using a phone level, my boat is at a -5 degree angle, the ducer will be at a +5 degree angle when setting it?
Excellent video and great tip !!
Thanks for sharing.
Your Welcome
Did this on my bass boat ! Everything works perfect !! Great video and much appreciated!!
John what brand are you running and are your images crisp after making the adjustment?
@@TX_Nupe lowrance hds-9 two units ! They seem good ! Deeper water 10 ft and more they are very clear ! Any unit in real shallow isnt very clear ! Especially side images!
If that's your ??
Thanks! Just bought a new boat and don't want the same problems with the finder.
Congrats on the new boat!
Noticed you had the mount on transom with slots looked below the bottom of the boat. I just installed my Garman plus 7 SV where the bottom of the skimmer is even with bottom surface but now I'm getting rooster tail at speed, and cavitation at full open hole shot.... Have to feather the throttle to get up on plane. So yours looks way under the bottom of your boat. And in yours with the mount it would seem like a water disturbance for the transducer as well as the prop for possible cavitation. I just need to know about the skimmer bottom relative position at the nose if it, and I glad I happened on your leveling technique. Other than rooster tail mine seemed to work. Even at speed up to about 35 mph.
Gene I have a 2d transducer epoxied into the bilge for speed. I'm using the transducer on the back for si/di only. The larger si/di transducers just don't work well at speed in most cases.
How do I level it if I want to use it at above trolling speeds, as well as at trolling speed? Or do you get one speed or the other?
I could be wrong but I believe side imaging works best between something like 1-4mph so I think that's what its geard towards
Adjusted my transducer using your method. Transducer looks somewhat high on the trailing end. We had a Garmin Echomap 94SV installed. Great features but so far the Side scanning is totally garbage. Have had a variety of comments good and bad on Facebook by others who own this unit. Several said it works great and all kinds of detail. The detail I'm getting is basically no detail just garbage screens. Garmin Support had me change a few settings and move the transducer cable. I possibly have interference to the transducer cable. I also bought a Ferrite Coil that clamps on the cable. Not sure if that will do it. I know it will help to have the transducer at the right angle. Never had any of these problems with our 2009 Humminbird unit.
Bob I'm afraid Garmin has a long way to go in the Di/Si imaging before they are close to the others. I have run them all and Humminbird is the best Si with a dead heat on the Di screen between Lowrance and
Humminbird. Garmin is bringing up the rear and has almost been lapped. I have no issues with Garmin and the Panoptix is interesting but I can't recommend them at this time.
Pickwick Marine Electronics I actually have told Garmin and the shop I got our Garmin from that even on a bad day the Humminbird Side Imaging is way better. No replies back.
I commented to Garmin Support person after being told my screen shots looked normal, that even on a bad day our 2009 Humminbird did a way better job of side imaging. Garmin has some great features but I'm disappointed with the Side imaging. One Garmin feature I wish all manufacturers would do. I bought a Garmin lake map. I had to use a Garmin application to logon and register the card. Then I got the option to copy the map to a Mini SD card. I took the 32GB card out of my unit and copied to it. Afterwards I was able to use all my built in map, Lake map, recorded maps all off the same card. No switching cards. That is a really great feature. I can leave the card I bought at home and use it later if I had to. I would like to see better side imaging and a few things improved still.
quiet possibly the best informative video on youtube for fishermen. I appreciate your time and knowledge for making this video. Thank you!
Thanks for the awesome video. Very simple and highly helpful!!
I spent greatly for a helix 10 for DI and SI. I also installed a new 360 Humminbird. The 2D sonar is beautiful. The rest of it really sucks, and even after buying cue cards from the Technological Angler, I can't get it adjusted. My marina (very experienced) installed my transducer on my bass tracker on the upper step right beside my speedometer mount. Is my problem because of too much turbulence? Should I move there transducer down to the indented step of the transducer? Can you advise me here? Thank you.
Ezra if you do Facebook send me a message at Pickwick Marine Electronics and I'll see what I can do.
This video was very helpful.ive been battling this for weeks.im going this route
Would you happen to have a way to install a transducer on a minnkota PowerDrive? I put one on but I’ll really have to watch the cabling... my ol Terrova had a groove to run the cable through but this one doesn’t... thanks and great video!
I use a product from Cornfield Crappie. Give them a call, great folks.
Very good idea I just got two helix sevens. Should help during install. Being from Ohio have to wait awhile.
Than you! Just finished my install and this was super easy!
I'm not understanding this concept. The level deal with the pocket change to get level I get. But how does that get your transducer level?
I didn't see you putting penny's on the transducer or adjusting it with penny's or a the penny's.
Awesome advice....I'll keep the change!! :)
Hi there, This is a good way to mount tranducers.I agree that you shall lift the tranducer a little bit in the back end, because when you drive the bout and the boat rice in front, the angle of the tranducer will be wrong. I always mount tranducers like that and it works very good her in Lofoten of Norway. Now i have mounted my new Garmin GT23M-TM and i will test it in february to april at deep saltwater fishing after big Cod (skrei).
great idea, level to running attitude of the hull at low speed.
Thanks for sharing this info. I've got some adjustments to make.
Your welcome
Thanks so much for the video. i also have the triple shot transducer on my fiberglass boat. Can you tell me how high or low the transducer should be mounted? I currently do not get readings at traveling speed. I have seen a video where the guy uses a square to position the bottom of the transducer to be level with the bottom of the boat....Is this correct? Thanks so much!
Well i just got off the water and used 7 quarters to get the bubble leveled out, but didn't put the boat in gear to see. Anyway I came back to the house and tried to jack the boat up...that bubble didn't even budge....so I really need to find some extra blocks and wood to get it right...I don't suppose you took a photo of what you had under your wheel???
So I did the leveling on water and got my stack of coins, came home and leveled the boat with the coins. My problem is, with my lowrance transducer, it has the plastic teeth type locking devices on each side when in the bracket and won't allow me to level it properly to like the boat is. Do you have any recommendations for that?
Straightforward and works.
I am having one hell of a time with mine on a flat bottom boat. I have a blazer as 1856. Is there anyway I can get a hold of you via telephone?
Thank you so much for showing the whole steps.
Got both transducers on the boat. Works pretty good. The 2D Sonar works fine when trolling etc. On plane seems to fad out but still visible. I think a strake on the bottom of the boat might be causing that. I moved the 2D transducer over farther and remounted. I tried to get half of the transducer below the bottom of the boat. Also level with the bottom of the boat. The Si is adjusted for the level of the boat while trolling. That seems to be perfect. Any advice on the 2D what should the angle be and half ways below the bottom of the boat on the low side of the transducer. The bottom of the boat is flat in the center and then angled up to each side. I have a fiber transducer plate.
Hi.
Does the transducer not get effected physically when driving at high speed on the water? mine causes a big rooster tail when going quicker than idling speed. do I need to move my transducer?
It can cause a rooster tail depending on mounting location. In this case there is a high speed transducer in the bilge and the transducer is mounted high enough to be out of the water at speed.
I have side imaging, down imaging unit, where should I place the transducer? Above, between, or under the bottom of the boat ? I tried placed between the boat’s bottom and water line, It cause water slashed into my outboard . Thanks
Andy it's tough to tell without seeing the boat. There is a humminbird tips and tricks facebook group. If you post a picture of the transom it will be seen and you will get some suggestions. I don't always chime in but if I see that folks aren't giving the best of information I post.
I have a Tracker 195 TXW. Currently my transducer is mounted on the lower portion of transom but I feel like it needs to be a little higher. Can transducer be mounted on upper part of transom ?
Great video. Best I've seen when trying to set up a totalscan transducer. I have a Lowrance 7ti on a 89 Ranger. Sidescan is great but downscan and 2d looks like crap when setting still. They both look good when moving though. Do you think I need more adjustment or is this common? I have a elite 7 chirp on the trolling motor with a HDI transducer that reads great. Also does it matter which direction the transducer is facing? I've seen them mounted both ways and I know you can flip the side scan in the settings.
It doesn't matter which way for anything but Si. You are seeing what's normal for sitting still. Images are much better moving.
Wow, I had gone to grab my 3 ton jack and almost had it maxed out, but was able to get the bubble in the center of the level. I hope that I will be able to see arches after this experiment.
Next time you are on the water let us know.
I would like to run my fish finder on my ski doo ( ice fishing) just for the GPS maps, what do I do with the transducer unplug it or leave it plugged in
Does this method help on a small 12-13 foot inflatable which is going to have its level affected by even small ocean chop or swell, any recommendations for small boats or is it not an issue for SI quality in your experience? I have a Helix8 G3N mega+.
I would level it as you would normally run it. It's not much different than most boats as loads and conditions change almost every trip. The Helix 8 is the best "bang for the buck" unit on the market of any brand out there.
Thanks Hopefully this will make an improvement on my helix. I have a kicker on the same side of the transducer, would that make a difference? because my fish finder is not working properly. its not clear and no signal of fish even tho i saw some.
If one of these larger transducers is angled down too far it's also going to act a bit like a trim tab isnt it and cause the boat to list a smidge? I think I have that problem
Super helpful. Thank you!
Hey James, is there a way to do this with a transducer that’s mounted to a jack plate on a transducer shield saver? Don’t seem like there’s a way to adjust them
I don't do a lot with the TSS products but the last one I installed I drilled the holes in the bracket larger to get the correct angle and them used a stainless fender washer to cover the hole. Last time I checked they did nave some triangle shims also.
So since your Lowrance ducer was too far down in the garage, what did you end up doing to raise it up a little to match what the attitude of boat is in the water?
Kevin that's been so long ago I don't remember.
@@pickwickmarineelectronics1019 Ok thanks for replying. Still learned a lot.
Its a great tip, but the conditions on the water could vary greatly depending on weight distribution, fuel in the tank, etc. How do you compensate...or is it still just an "in the ball park" adjustment?
I have found the "front/back leveling is the most important when it comes to clear images. In my measurements on different boats and loads it really doesn't change much. The tendency for the boat to lean left/right is more pronounced and not much can be done about that. There is a video of a bracket a guy in Australia that made a bracket with a simple left/right adjustment. It was a well thought out and made design but he had no intentions of selling them. It was also fairly large and would be a tough sell to most folks.
FWIW I have found that on the majority of boats about a 4 degree tilt to the boat with the transducer set at level produces good images.
I am putting a SI humminbird unit on my pontoon boat. the starboard pontoon has a bracket on it with a void in it where the pump for the live well sets. my questions are: how far below the bracket should the nose of the transducer sit, and will the void where the pump fits cause problems for the transducer, reading wise? the bottom of the bracket is even with the bottom of the pontoon tube. Thanks.
+Delmer Spencer Jr.
It should work fine there. Not really a lot of choice with a pontoon :-)
I've got a helix 9 si kvd that is reading blank and won't show trees, rocks, etc. will only show depth shading when going over a point or when the depth changes. Transducer is mounted level with the ground not the boat so hoping this solves my issue!
Very informative video.The bracket for your fish finder sitting beside the level. Where can I buy that type of bracket?
The mount is a Cisco Fishing Systems mount. It's the $129 model. The plate it's on was built for me by a local shop. You should have received a reply via Facebook when you sent me the question?? If not let me know please so I can see if there is an issue with my FB page.
I've seen people break in cars for less change than that--great video. SO- I guess this is about getting the transducer parallel with the gunnells? I see how many coins it takes to get that level (on the sides) and then I mount the transducer at the same angle? I need to rewatch the video. The little and big lowrance xducers are adjustable right? So when I get the boat in the water I can make small adjustments? thank you!!
Mark this is so the transducer runs parallel to the waters surface at idle. Watch the video again and if you still have questions just let me know.
I have a tiller outboard and move to the front and use my trolling motor so that is 180 # moving to the front of my 14 ft Jon.Your saying this would work for me?Where should I check level ?Should I check with me in the middle of boat since I use sonar from the back and front at times and move my unit with me, but transducer is on transom?thanks
Since this mainly involves helping clear up the SI I would set it from the rear. If you are only using one transducer there may have to be some adjustment so that it works well at speed.
I do not have side imaging.Will this still help with DI and traditional sonar?Also, are you familiar with Lowrance Elite 7 chirp machines?Been having issues with the screen freezing.Not sure if that means it looses bottom or what?I actually got a replacement unit and transducer and have same issue.Heard of others with these having same issue.
I'm not familiar with the Elite machines. If the screen keeps freezing I would check the power supply. Make sure you have good connections straight to the battery and fused on the positive side.
Leveling a transducer isn't as important with the Di/2d machines but it sure won't hurt.
ok-I tried two different batteries and same results.Fused on positive.
You may have to call Lowrance on this one then. Just be warned it can take a long time to get a unit back from them.
Good video. But is this only relevant for 'prospecting' at slow speed/idle?
I wonder if adjusted this way, the change in the angle when planning at speed may interfere with the depth readout!
David it will cause the loss of high speed readings in most cases. Since Si came out the best way to mount these units is with a y-cable, the Si transducer and a 2d high speed transducer if mounted externally. If on a glass boat use a bilge mount 2d transducer.
Thanks very much for info. Not running s/s right now. But know what I have to do when I upgrade system.
However I can fit a once redundant unit for depth purposes only and therefor, would you suggest your method for traditional sonar and downscan. I have a Lowrance 83/200/455/800 transom mount?
Thanks for the info. Much appreciated
Sorry I didn't see your question earlier. I'm honestly not sure what it would change on Di units. I haven't thought about it before. I can't see where it would make it worse though :-)
My error. I had already replied to your previous answer. But thanks anyway
As an aside, can you speak to the SternMate(s) you are using to avoid more holes in the transom of the hull? Body shops wants about $150 per hole (x 6) to fill!
I really like the Sternmate that I have. I have had issues with the dual mount plate cracking but that is when I had two large transducers on it. If you have a bunch of old holes a transducer mounting board may work for you.
Thanks for sharing. Good info!
Q1- What that the larger Sternmate?
Q2Any suggestions??
As for adding the transducer board, my two ducers are screwed into the bottom the of the step region of the hull, so a board, typically attached to the back of the stern would not cover them.
Q3 - Any feelings on placing then in the step region vs. out the stern?
jws
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@@jwschroeder804 The larger sternmate is made to hang two transducer off of. I only mount the 2d sonar transducer on the step and then only on an aluminum boat. The proper installation on glass hull is the epoxy a transducer in the bilge area. If the 2d transducer is on the step already though I would leave it. The larger Si transducers need to be more protected.
Great video .thanks is it necessary to do the transducer on trolling motor also? I have side imaging on that also
I have a 93 ranger 481v with a stepped hull. I don’t want to drill into the transom or the step. I have bought a stern saver. Will I be ok to put the transducer on the back of the transom still since it won’t fit with the stern saver on the step? I have a xm 9 20 Msi t mega transom mount transducer from Humminbird. Thanks for the help and loved the video
It's been awhile since I've done that exact boat but anywhere you can place the transducer with a clear side view is OK.
James Wahlstrom if I place the transducer on the center line of the hull/ transom will the motor interfere with the transducer while using si?
No but the length of the mega transducer can be an issue.
My boat it's low in neutral in the back under speed I use the trim to bring the nose down. Now when I'm using your method scanning for fish 2 or 3 miles an hour do I want my trim all the way down to have the bow down in the water for me any other way with the trim my nose of the boat will stick up high at low speed
Does that transducer read when underway? High speed?
Is that a ranger? I have a 361 and need advice on where to mount my hb si transducer. I have a 6” jack plate and 175 mercury on back The transducer won’t fit on the step so I think I need to transom mount like this boat has correct?
Josh would you mind send me a picture or two of the transom area? I can get them through my Pickwick Marine Electronics page on Facebook. I'll be glad to look at it for you.
Will this work for at speed and just trolling for 2d ( straight down? My front Lowrance shows correct depth while the one I. The back just says 5’ and does not change
When you say the ducer is going to look high in the back when on the trailer, are you saying the back as in the end closest to transom? Also how important is perfect level from side to side for proper function. Thanks!
+Corbin Beamer
The rear of the transducer farthest from the transom will look high. In fact most folks look very skeptical when they see how high it looks when they pick up their boat.
Side to side is important also but its a tough call for most folks. If you set it for just a single person in the boat it will be off when two folks are in the boat. My advice is to set it for the fishing you do most.
I find that the level from side to side REALLY makes a difference when it comes to side imaging so the imaging is pretty equal on both side of the water column. If you are not near a bank and in a good relatively flat area you have 1 side that goes out nicely to 100' but the other side fades out after well say 60' you may need to try leveling your transducer left or right
That is true but it's the toughest one to handle. On many boats it changes a lot depending on how many folks are on board.
First off Great idea! Thanks for sharing! I have a Lowrance Elite TI, with total scan transducer, do you know if using this method to adjust the pitch on my transducer to get a better si image will it effect the 2D image at greater speeds?
It will make a difference in all Si units. Be aware that the TI is a very good unit but the Lowrance Si has limitations with distance. It all depends on bottom composition. I see max usable range on the Lss2 transducer and the totalscan (Ti unit) of 50-60 feet in some soft bottom areas of lakes. The max I think is usable is about 100ft or so. I think the Ti with the total scan does a better job than the Gen 3 with Lss2 transducer. My opinion of course but I have run them side by side on the same targets.
Pickwick Marine Electronics very cool thank you!
How accurate is this is this the best way to do it
I put mine on the left side of the boat
Does it make a difference on what side
Awesome video. Thanks so much. I take it when you’re back at the shop and you’ve tilted your trailer to get the bubble in the middle, you walk back and put the level on the transducer, you want to adjust your transducer up until the bubbles in the middle? Thanks again
Yes sir! Thanks for the comment.
Very helpful, thank you sir!
Your welcome......
Hi tx for the vid, how did it work in front of the prop? I have a 74 searay with a 351 inboard - installed it where ive done it before (about 10 inches to the starboard side of motor (between the side trim flap) and leveled it on both axis - i use a straight strip of wood flat underneath the hull backwards to get a line of the water direction too and line the transdicers nose right in the center of it -
Just curious how it works infront of the prop - mine stops getting a signal at about 8mph and i have a rooster tail at plane. previous one i did worked 100% - this one not so :p
I don't have experience installing on inboard boats so anything I say would almost be a guess.
Pickwick Marine Electronics thanks yeah I think mines too deep. getting a rooster tail and its cutting out after 6mph..
I've always been told the bottom of your hull should split down the middle of the transducer. That's not correct?
If you are trying to run only the Si transducer that might be a starting point for getting a reading at anything over idle. With the si transducers for many units being so large most folks run both the Si transducer and a 2d transducer. If a fiberglass boat most mount the 2d in the hull. With an aluminum many put a 2d transducer on the boat alongside the si transducer. It's much easier to get readings at speed with the smaller 2d transducer.
which system did you use for the Structure scan? I see sternmate has various systems
+Freddy Roman
I used the Sternmate System ($119) and the Duo plate so I could mount multiple transducers.
How far below the bottom of the boat is your transducer?
Excellent video man!
Do you use both transducers at the same time? If so do they work well? Ie how is the interference?
I do but there is interference. If I want to use both I set them to different frequencies. Even then there will be some interference. I have found that some interference bothers the fisherman more than the units.
Will It matter if I use Canadian coins? They are allot lighter than American coins
Great tip - thanks!
great tutorial - Thank you. I'll bet very few think about leveling the ducer according to the attitude as the boat sits in the water.
I don't remember where I learned this from. I believe it was one of the Humminbird guys at a boat show. I'm just passing on what I have learned. :-)
What base is that transducer mounter to?
Great info and by using this method it has given me better quality down imaging and 2d returns
Glad it helped
Nice video. Thanks...also, what ram mount is that?
That is a mount made by Cisco fishing. One of the mounts I sell the most of.
what"s the bracket you used to connect the structure scan to the transom
+Freddy Roman
The bracket is made by Sternmate. It can be bought at sternmate.com. They use adhesive to mount on the boat and I'm all about no holes below the water line!!
Well done..
Shouldn't you use the coins on the tranducer also ?
So that tells me how to find out if it is level, but how do I LEVEL it?
My question exactly
what a great video! you guys rock
+Christopher Parker
Thanks!
+Pickwick Marine Electronics It appears that the humminbird hdsi is on left side. have you had any issues running transducer on the left of motor?
+Christopher Parker
I actually have 5 transducers on the rear when doing demos. If you make sure the transducer bottoms are reasonably even with each other it works fine.
Nice good tips man
I have a totalscan tranducer for a elite 9ti on my 2012 Carolina skiff dlv and di,sonar and si looks great at idle but anything above 10-15mph it loses depth.
Make sur that the transducer is mounted at least 1/2" below the transom and away from any chines that may cause turbulence
Excellent Video! Thank you. 1 question - is it ok to move your throttle handle forward like that on the regular? In my Lund it seems to be in the way unless I do that but I don’t know if I’m hurting anything !
My boat has a hot foot pedal for the gas so the handle goes all the way down in gear. You need the boat in idle and it doesn't matter where the level is as long as you place it in the same place at home to adjust the transducer.