Anyone have one of those newer Motor Guides with the transducer built into the motor housing? I just got a "new to me" boat and I'm considering upgrading the trolling motor. Any opinions, positive or negative, on these models would be appreciated. Thanks!

EW

I have the minkota with the built in transducer, I enjoy it when I use it, but really don't use it as often as I thought I would. Personally, if I were to do it again, I would spend the money on a 36 volt system and a 100+ pound trolling motor.

I have the wireless 24v 75 lbs thrust w/ built-in trans...Luv it so far. How durable and dependable is still yet to be answered... Only time will tell..

Dang SLAB! That's a heck of a setup for crappie fishing.

i have the Minn Kota Max Pro 80# Thrust with lift assist and built in transducer.... it spikes interference thru my Bottomline 480 max(PIECE OF JUNK). I love not having the wires running all over the shaft, and not having to worry about keep ing the external transducer straight.... the interference can be resolved by running a ground wire from starting battery to trolling battery negative posts.. I just havent done it yet... well worth the money.... the sonar would make a good wieght for a brushpile though.... LOL! I went the cheap route on th sonar- and now I am kicking myself!! Lowrance or Eagle next time.. Humminbird side imaging for the console

I ran a Minn Kota with built in transducer for years with no problem. I carry it in my truck for a back-up now. I now have a piece of junk Motor guide 82# without transducer and I've already pinched the cable and about jerked the cable off on a stump yesterday. Built in transducer is the only way to go IMHO.

cellis,

It's cool to be able to control thru the remotes. I have one tape to the fav. rod so I can control the boat and fish with both hands at the same time. The other remote is attached to the auto-inflatable vest for when I put the rod down. Plus the foot control that I don't normal have to use.
Here is a cool thing that I've done many times over. When I get a bit too shallow where it hit the bottom. Most people would pull the TM up the conventional way and try to steer out from an angle, then set down when clear. For me, I step to the back of the boat; that would raise the front up enough to clear. Use the remote to steer without being in the front of the boat. Can't tell you how convenient that is...Glad I went wireless; and I wouldn't do it any other way in the future...(unless it is NOT durable; only time will tell. So far there is no interference).

Sounds pretty sweet.