Elite 4 HDI FF: Install?

Hey all,

New to the FF scene and about to pull the trigger on the deal seen at the link below. Anything I should be cautious about or does this look like a great deal? Thanks <*((((><

http://www.anchorexpress.com/Lowrance-Elite-4-HDI-Combo-GPS-Chartplotter-Fishfinder-000-11216-001

Seems like a reasonable deal.

good to know. Now, I want the transom-mount-transducer correct?

Yes, that is the only choice but still, yes.  It won't be transom mounted though.  That's where you'll need to get creative in how/where you mount it.

Awesome. Just wanna make sure i'm ordering the right type. Thanks for your help; looking forward to installing it and getting it on the water <*((((><

I have a Lowrance Mark 4HDI Brand new in box (Twin to the Elite just B/W) - $150 with everything you need for a yak... Only difference is no color... Which in my opinion is nicer because of the fact it doesn't drain battery as much and it also has better contrast in bright light....

Already bought the other one. Thanks though 

Already bought the other one. Thanks though 

You won't be disappointed. Great unit !

Make sure you get it submerged before the warranty runs out! I soaked my Elite 4 last week for 5 minutes in the salt and it fried. Watch the SD card slot as this may be a weak link. Mine was sealed shut but unit still full of H2O and NACL. Ordered a Raymarine 4Pro for $250 from Anchor Express too. http://www.anchorexpress.com/Raymarine-Dragonfly-4PRO-CHIRP-Sonar-GPS-DownVision-E70294-US

Yes, do make sure you keep the chip door shut as water can enter ANY brand unit thru this location.  I always suggest users to take a few seconds to make sure that the rubber door hasn't become lost & is securely in place before hitting the water.  Having it become dislodged during handling/transport can & has happened.  During post-use cleaning, make sure debris like dirt, sand, salt, etc doesn't clog up the seal area.  Some users have chosen to go as far as tape or silicone the door shut; I opt to advise the directive of making sure it's clean & securely shut - only takes a few seconds before launch time.

You unit does come with a 1-year warranty and a number of retailers do offer extended warranty options as well.  If issues do come about with these units and assistance is needed, don't hesitate to reach out to one of your fellow NCKA members who are part of the Lowrance Pro-Staff (there are a few of us) - we may be able to help!

Dang there's some good deals on that site!
Elite 7 CHIRP w/transducer for $407: http://www.anchorexpress.com/Lowrance-Elite-7-CHIRP-Fishfinder-Chartplotte-000-11663-001
Or Elite 5 HDI w/50-200khz transducer for $299...

Dang there's some good deals on that site!
Elite 7 CHIRP w/transducer for $407: http://www.anchorexpress.com/Lowrance-Elite-7-CHIRP-Fishfinder-Chartplotte-000-11663-001
Or Elite 5 HDI w/50-200khz transducer for $299...

Bear in mind that the Anchor Express package (Elite 7) does NOT include the HDI transducer, just a basic 83/200 so it will not display DownScan imaging.

But yes, that is still a great deal!

I went with the Lowrance Elite-4-HDI Combo and it should be here tomorrow. Can anyone please offer some advice or a link to a nice resource for the work-flow of FF installation. I know that the first thing I will need is to purchase some items such as glue, battery & misc. items. Any insights would be mucho appreciated <*((((><

I like using the RAM setup with a yak Attack rail.

http://www.norcalkayakanglers.com/index.php?topic=59255.msg668462#msg668462

I agree with WingShooter that if your kayak isn't equipped with an electronics pod using a track system is the way to go.

As for installing the transducer this is the method I like if you are planning to shoot thru the hull. I like to use plumbers duct seal which you can get at pretty much any hardware store. Its cheap and it works great! Here is a link from Home Depot: http://www.homedepot.com/p/Gardner-Bender-Duct-Seal-Compound-Plug-DS-110/100212441

Basically, you build a cradle out of the duct seal and then encompass the transducer inside of it. It is simple, cheap, non-permanent if you decide to move it later, and best of all, it works like a champ!

Here is a link to a video showing how to do it: http://www.pierandsurf.com/fishing-forum/showthread.php?84287-The-best-way-to-install-a-thru-hull-transducer-on-a-kayak

Just one way to do it. I hope that helps.

Eric