Thinking of buying an hds 7 gen 3. I currently have an elite 7ti on th console with tha 83/200 transducer. I want to move the elite to the bow and put the hds at console. What is the difference going to be between the total scan or structure scan. I would move the Down imaging transducer to the TM. I am just really confused on the difference in th 2 units and which unit is going to meet my needs?

TotalScan has 2D sonar while the LSS-2 (Structure Scan) does not.  LSS-2 requires a separate 2D transducer and TotalScan is an all-in-one package.

 

If you are taking the transducer from the Elite up front and don't have another source for 2D on the stern (like a thru-hull), the TotalScan makes more sense I would think.  You probably won't be able to mount the TotalScan in a place that will allow on-plane depth readings though...If that matters to you.

 

I use the LSS-2 with a separate 2D thru-hull for my console HDS.  

Total scan has 2d/down/side imaging all in one transducer. On plate depth readings over 40mph are hard to keep consistent. Up to 40 it's fine if you install it correctly. I dumb lucked into doing it spot on first try on a mounting block. On plane depth is, for the most part, useless on plane anyway. Quality mapping is more important. 

 

If you really want it(2d on plane) get the Lss-2 and y-splitter for a separate 2d transducer that mounts inside the boat for on plane 2d. Then you an mount the Lss-2 to transom. 

Good information, I really like getting on plane depth readings. But then again I really don't fly around the lake opened up a lot so if I could still get on plane readings at 40 mph I could live with that. Is that the only function I would lose or would the gps speed and other functions also not work over 40 mph? 

 

If you really want it(2d on plane) get the Lss-2 and y-splitter for a separate 2d transducer that mounts inside the boat for on plane 2d. Then you an mount the Lss-2 to transom. 

 

What kind of 2d transducer would I need for this and where on the boat could I mount it?

The only thing you lose at top speed is depth/contour readings. Mine will pop in and out if it's glass calm at 50MPH but 38-40 is where it goes out most times. I don't run WOT if I don't know the area and by the time you see something on 2d while running on plane it was too late 10 seconds ago. That's why I don't rely on it on plane. I do believe it still reads water temp on plane though. Honestly don't remember. I'm usually just looking at speed/map. 

 

If you want the LSS-2 transducer and the splitter, you will need to get a shoot through hull transdcuer and a y-cable splitter.

 

There's a few shoot through transducers here:

https://www.lowrance.com/lowrance/type/sonar--transducers/list/?ItemsPerPage=36&SortBy=Featured&page=1&DisplayOption=List

 

Others might chime in on which one but I would choose the puck style. 

 

There's quite a few youtube videos on how to install it. It's really, really simple. Best way is to use tape or something to hold the transducer in place, go out on the water and run it until you get the readings you want. Then epoxy it in that place. 

 

Y cable for LSS-2 I believe is part #:

000-11169-001

 

install is straight forward. Run both transducers to the hub pig tails and then the stand alone to the unit. Select the correct transducers. 

 

I've got an 83/200 up front on my Ultrex and really like having the DI option. I got a little interference but not terrible. I'm putting a ferrite on the wiring in the spring to clear that up. Best piece of advice for that transducer is get a quality transducer shield/holder. I've broke 2 of the 19.99 puck holder ones just leaning on it. 

2 hours ago, iabass8 said:

I don't run WOT if I don't know the area and by the time you see something on 2d while running on plane it was too late 10 seconds ago. That's why I don't rely on it on plane. I do believe it still reads water temp on plane though. Honestly don't remember. I'm usually just looking at speed/map. 

These are my thoughts as well even though I have the thru-hull setup.  For navigation purposes, you're moving too fast to do anything if you find yourself suddenly in shallow water...Mapping is much more effective for staying out of trouble.