Topic: Disappointed with my 798ci SI

[C. Corner]

After moving my transducer again the left side of SI still does not work. I am absolutely sure that it is not seeing anything across the back of the transom. I even tilted the motor all the way up and used the trolling motor and it still would not work.The right side shows up the contours of the bank but I'm not seeing trees and other items. The down imaging isn't that great either. I am having a bad case of buyers remorse with this unit and wish I had just bought a 2D sonar. 

[George]

C. Corner

Not sure what the issue is maybe you should take a picture and post it of the transducer installation, it might show us something.  Also it could be in your menu setup.

The set up can be a little fickle, the chart speed should match the boat speed and a number of other things can help get a clear picture. 

You may want to go to Doug Vahrenberg's video site. There are a number of good videos including a 9 part seminar on how to get the most out of your unit.  Even though he uses an 1197 for demonstration, the videos are still relevant to understanding the units.

-->  http://www.dougvahrenberg.com/Videos.html  <--

George

[C. Corner]

This is not a screen shot but it is an example of what I am seeing. The left side never changes and the transducer is not blocked by anything. If I don't turn the sensitivity all the way up I basically get a blank screen on both sides

[C. Corner]

Here is a side view of my transducer. I have moved it a couple of time already.

[sonar2000]

C.c    ......there has been some issues with the transducers and the internal wiring connection. It does seem to point to your transducer.
Is it at all possible to put your unit on another persons boat and try their transducer?

Chuck

[C. Corner]

No, I don't know anyone who has a unit. The 2D works fine, the SI and DI not so good. HB wants me to send it in for servicing but in my mind I shouldn't have to get a brand new $750 unit worked on. To me that would be like buying an open box item as new. I would hope they would replace or just give me my money back.To their credit the service people do respond in reasonable time. Just wish I could get this thing to work.

[sonar2000]

I guess I would send it in.  there are known issues with transducers elements and the internal wiring connection (inside the black housing) and remember there are multiple elements in the transducer that do the different functions, DI, 2d, or SI.
HB assembles the transducer in house and only purchase the components to make the transducer.

Hopefully they wont take too long in getting it back to you.

Chuck

[stillbear]

C Corner I see by the image you have a aluminum boat. Since you have no way of trying your unit on
another boat could you take mount your transducer to a stick or pole put boat in water idle down a bank
place TD in water away from boat see if you get a image now.I would try this before i sent it in.I wish
you where closer I would help you. Your picture needs to be on the same plane. You need to kneel down
take the shot side to side and also from the rear looking under the boat if you can. I would like to see it.
Thanks Gary

[C. Corner]

My issue is resolved! I took it back and exchanged it and the new unit works very well. It is like night and day from the one I had. Don't really know what the problem was unless the transducer was bad because the new one is mounted in the exact same place and is working great. Thank you for all of your suggestions.

[sonar2000]

C.C........glad you are working fine now..
If I had to place a bet it would be on the transducer.
Good that you could swap the unit also....
Where did you get it from?
Chuck

[C. Corner]

Academy Sports. Just asked me if I had my receipt, no hassle at all. I'm just happy it works.

[sonar2000]

c.c....ok, now to catch some fish and post some pictures.... ....

chuck

[stillbear]

My issue is resolved! I took it back and exchanged it and the new unit works very well. It is like night and day from the one I had. Don't really know what the problem was unless the transducer was bad because the new one is mounted in the exact same place and is working great. Thank you for all of your suggestions.

  Great to hear now go out an enjoy your new electronics. Gary