I currently run an 1198 at the console and 998 at the bow. Both units use same transducer off of transom which means console unit must be on for bow unit to receive transducer signal. I am finally ready to pull trigger on an ultrex mainly for spot lock capabilities. My question is do I get the Ultrex with link for my birds and what advantages do I get verses non link to my birds.

Here you go. You can add about $600 for the Link with the extra cable and splitter box. Been trying to decide myself and this info helped me. I'm going without the Link.

https://www.trollingmotors.net/blogs/pro...vs-i-pilot-link

The 1198 and 998 series did not get the latest update for the newest Bluetooth I pilot link version. There will be some limitations with your units to the Bluetooth version such as circle mode and not sure about the jog feature. But follow the contour will work.

I have a 958di at the bow, don't see that I'd ever use the jog or the follow the contour feature either. The follow the contour feature only works with Lakemaster HD chips and not all lakes are in HD, and the lake must be an HD lake.

Also there is gps in the head unit and the puck that comes with the unit is for jog only. Spot lock works with the gps in the head unit. At least this is what I've read. I won't be installing the puck that comes with the unit, don't plan on using jog and not sure it even works with my 958.

The included Heading Sensor stabilizes the GPS since GPS cannot calculate location without moving. That stabilization keeps the motor in a smaller area=more accurate spotlock.
It has nothing to do with a sonar unit regardless of which model.
It does indicate direction for the GPS so it knows where left is when you want to jog left.

The LINK version is what is used with a compatible Humminbird unit for Follow-the-contour with Lakemaster and Auto Chart HD mapping. LINK is an Ethernet connection. Still has nothing to do with the Minnkota Heading Sensor.

Thanks for explaining Wayne. I reckon I'll be installing the heading sensor then. Can I install the heading sensor anywhere on the boat?

It is powered so you need a 12V connection. Also since it is a compass, it is affected by nearby ferrous metals, magnets in the trolling motor, and high current from a trolling motor running or outboard charging the battery. TEST before you attach it to the hull. READ the instructions pretty much covers all of that.

Ok, Thanks

Installed my Ultrex and didn't install the heading sensor because I didn't want to drill holes in my boat. Spot Lock works great without it. The heading sensor might enhance spot lock, but mine doesn't need enhancing. Going to leave the heading sensor off, not planning on using the Jog feature.

I love the jog feature when fishing docks or a brush line. If you install the heading sensor you may be surprised how often you would use it.

I pretty much bought it for Spot Lock only, probably won't ever touch the remote unless I have a problem. If I need to Jog over 10-15 feet, I'll take it off of spot lock, move then spot lock back down. Don't want a remote hanging off my belt or around my neck.

The perfect thing for me would have been a Fortrex with only the Spot Lock feature. I'm sure a lot of folks will use those other features, but not me.