Trying to decide whether to spend the extra $100 on a Maxum Pro (with lift assist) or just get the standard model. Anyone have any experience one way or another, or just opinions? I'm used to a smaller TM that is light anyway. Never had to pull up a 24v model all day. Is the extra money worth it?
Also looking at the universal sonar 2 (another $100 extra). Don't know if I want to spend $1100 on a TM, but if I'm spending $900 anyway, it wouldn't be a big stretch.
Opinions please, even if they're negative. Just looking for some different perspectives.

the lift assist is a great thing as you get older..trust me I wanted it and got it.

never used the universal sonar, too expensive for my blood

I think you should get both options. I have had both with and without those 2 features and they are worth every penny.

No more broken transducers or crimped/cut cables plus night and day weight when deploy and stowing the motor.

Good luck, I just ordered my 08 BassCat FTD and ordered the MK Max Pro 101 w/ US2...not a better motor out there in my opinion.

I have one with the universal sonar and love it. I WISH I had gotten the lift-assist too!

I've got both and I couldn't imagine going back to without them.

I just got both, lift assist and universal sonar, on my new Ranger. They make fishing a lot more enjoyable than the old Motor Guide that I had on my old boat. I think that they are well worth the extra money. Think about it, most of your time fishing is spent on the TM.

Thanks for the opinions. I was leaning toward getting both. Just making sure I wasn't wasting money on a gimmick feature.

Any idea about how hard it is to run the wiring (DIY) from TM to depthfinder for the US2 on a Ranger?

All you need is an adapter for your specific model fishfinder. Around $15.

I love the lift assist and universal sonar. One thing to be aware of - my MK with universal sonar is not compatible with a surface temp sensor. In other words, if you had a clamp on transducer with surface temp on your old trolling motor - the temp will no longer function once you go to universal sonar. My dealer told me this AFTER he had already installed it...

The new US2 models claim they ARE compatible w/ temp sensor units. Is yours a US1, or would there be a chance it has it and is just not compatible?

Good point Rusty! Mine is a US1. I would still ask if the temp sensor is compatible - just in case.

Rusty, I just bought a MK powerdrive w/US1 w/the co-pilot system. absolutely love it. wish it had lift assist tho! I had to install this whole unit & system myself as I have a pleasure boat, NOT A FISHING BOAT! The little attachment for the sonar is $19.99 @ Cabela's or BPS either one same price.
I got lucky and got mine at cabela's on clearance, but it was last years model & was the display unit as well.
I got the TM, w/US1 & co-pilot system all for about $500.00

Good luck & Good fishing!
mike