Universal sonar on Minn Kota Maxxum 's?

[Mille Lacs Guy]

What sonar units work with the Universal sonar option on the Minn Kota Maxxum? I have a Zercom LPG 2000 and was wondering if that was one of the units that is compatible with the universal sonar. I know the Z-160 zercom is suppossed to work but I am unsure of the LPG 2000. I have a Lowrance that I know is compatible but I would prefer to leave that on the back of the boat. Also is the Vexilar FL8 compatible with the universal sonar? This sounds like a better idea than putting a transducer on the bottom of the electric motor and running wires up the shaft. Any information on this topic would be appreciated. Thanks.

[fisherman]

Better check with you're sonar manufacturer. Lowrance may not warranty their sonar if you do not use the transducer supplied with the unit. Same with Garmin. Double check before you take the plundge.

[EsoxProSport]

I emailed JWA/Minn Kota the reply I got told me the Zercom(now Humminbird Classic) LPG 2000 was not adaptable to Universal Sonar. Same with the Vexilar FL8. I still have not made up my mind on purchasing a MAXXUM or AUTOPILOT for my new Boat. I have been leaning toward the Maxxum. One thing I do not like is the Sonar Cable exits the Maxxum's foot pedal and must be routed back to the bow. My boat I just sold had a MInn Kota All Terrain/Basically the same as a Maxxum. I had no problems running a Small Transducer and Cable Neatly up the shaft and to the bow fishfinder I did a neat job, using special clips and zip ties. Never Pinched a cable.

I do not have a LPG 2000, but recently saw a good price on one and do like the fishfinder. I do not think a Trolling Motor Transducer is available, so think adapting the transom transducer would be kind of bulky on the trolling motor. How do you like your LPG 2000?

[Mille Lacs Guy]

I really like the LPG 2000. Last summer was the 2nd full summer I used it and I am amazed at how easy it is to use. You can adjust everything with the push of a button. There aren't the complicated "windows" that are associated with the Lowrance units, but Lowrance also makes a fine graph. I like the dual frequency transducer for honing in on fish on structure and I like the "bottom lock" feature. Its been well worth the money. I have also used the new X15 Lowrance and this is just as good as that unit. One problem I do sometimes have is losing the reading at certain speeds. If anyone know how to remedu this let me know. I while back I read something that Zercom may be altering the design of the tranducer or transducer bracket to solve this problem. I have made adjustments on the tranducer angle and placement with no avail. Overall its a great unit.

[EsoxProSport]

Thanx for the info.. based on transducers I have installed its hard to say exactly what is happening. Most obvious would be a bad transducer location. Only thing I would suggest is a Transducer Plate if you do not already have one. Thay sell for about ten bucks at any of the big boat supply and fishing supply stores. That way you can move the transducer around by drilling holes and screwing it into different locations on the plate, not the boat itself.

Have you used your Zercom LPG for ice fishing? I have read they work well.