Anyone have a Terrova 80 i-Pilot w/universal transducer they'd like to brag about... or publicly chastise. I'm particularly interested in how "universal" the transducer is and how well the "spot lock" function of the i-Pilot works in the real world.

oe

Yep. Spot Lock will keep you in a 5 foot radius as long as there is a GPS signal. It does a better job under low wind or low current conditions. I only say this because under high winds or current it does get annoying with the motor cutting on and off trying to keep you on point. Best to hit the button when the bow is pointed into the wind. If you do a lot of vertical jigging, it's a feature you can't live without. You can also set a speed and direction and hold yourself in place or trolling upwind or into current. I cast for bass but it is a great feature if you river fish for walleyes. You can set the TM to move with the current to keep your presentation vertical. Another  benefit with the Spot Lock is you can catch a fish, hit the button, and not worry about the boat moving or running into shore while you're trying to unhook or retie. The US2 works fine with the 2d sonar. It is universal but check the compatibility list. You will need to purchase an adaptor. Had it on my Powerdrive V2 and have it on my Terrova. 

Absolutely no complaints with my iPilot 80# with Universal sonar. Though I do not use universal sonar. I have my SI transducer mounted there. The spotlock works well. Not as well as a power pole. But sufficient for my purposes. Fished all day in 20 mph wind week before last in 15 FOW (couldn't do that with power pole) the SL held good & came home with 3/4 charge left in the battery.

I love mine.  Spot lock is a must have feature.  The us2 works as advertised, but is not compatible with many graphs. My only complaint is the way it is stowed and let out. Not near as easy as grabbing a rope and pulling.  Also when running in shallow water like to get unhung, you cant just pull the rope and hold the t-motor up.  You have to adjust collar and run shallow, then back out and readjust collar.  That being said, I wouldn't trade mine for any other one right now!

 

Jeff 

Exactly what Jeff said.  I'm getting on in years, and the Terrova can be a real PITA to deploy and stow.  That said, I wouldn't trade my Terrova for anything else on the market.

I appreciate the feedback guys, thanks.

oe

yeppers.........00mod summed it up nicely.