I just picked up a new Lowrance HDS-7 with the HD Structure Map side scan. The installation instructions for the structure scan transducer mounting are terrible.

I've found a couple of instructional videos but they all seem to contradict each other on a couple of points. One thing they all mention is that you must mount the down scan transducer higher than the structure scan unit, so that the structure scan unit's beams aren't blocked by the down scan unit. What about the outboard engine? It blocks the entire view to the port side!:smash:

The instructions only mention a little blurb about "make sure the transducer is mounted in an unobstructed location". Ok, where the hell is that on a transom with an outboard? The instructions clearly mention not to mount the unit on the bottom of the hull.

Anybody install one of these? Seems like I'll need two, one to look left and one to look right?

Check out the threads on THT in the electronics forum. Lots of good stuff in there about mounting it.

I don't have a big stupid outboard hanging off the back so I don't have this problem, sorry. :hihi:

Also forgot to add Navico customer support (phone) is fantastic.

I have not installed one of these but I think you need 3 transducers, downscan, one each port and Starboard.
Posted from my iPhone/Mobile device

I have not installed one of these but I think you need 3 transducers, downscan, one each port and Starboard.
Posted from my iPhone/Mobile device

No, its a single transducer.

Thanks Likwid.

I found a bunch of good stuff on THT. Looks like I'll have to just trim up a bit when looking to the left. I found some video of the unit looking to both sides before and after trimming the up the outboard and it seems fine.

The LSS-2 is an amazing unit. Fun coming out of the harbor and being able to see all the moorings on the bottom. :D

Also really cool being able to fully understand a bunch of spots now.

why did you choose the Lowrance over the Hummingbird side scan? I am thinking about the side scan for next year.

I found the specs and pricing pretty much the same. Reports from a few sources claim that after developing the technology, HB hasn't really put any effort into advancing it while Lowrance has and is starting to pull ahead.

Also, HB has always been, to me anyway, a freshwater product. I am replacing an old Lowrance LMS 160MAP that I bought in 2000 that has stood up to constant salt spray and direct sun without missing a beat.

I can't wait to run the ditch from end to end and record the images. I'm going to drop a wpt at every numbered pole and see if I can line it all up on a 3d graphical map. I got a buddy who does graphic work and AUTO CAD and has a printer that will print up to 48" wide prints.

Winter project....