Wayne P.

I think you are correct. Don't see those models listed with most US dealers.

That is the discontinued first generation of Helix models. The new ones have way more processing horsepower and features. If you want sharper images, you can use the XHS 9 HDSI 180 T transducer. If you have not opened the transducer mount package or used the included Compact SI transducer, you can exchange that transducer for the HDSI for about $85 including shipping. That is done through Humminbird Customer Service.

Since there is no such model as a 7x SI GPS, which one of the SI versions did you get? Helix 7 SI GPS Helix 7 CHIRP SI GPS G2 Helix 7 CHIRP SI GPS G2N

The left side of the transducer should be about 1/4" below the hull that is forward of it. That would make the right side even lower than the hull forward of it. Probably can just move it about 1" to the right and have it perfect.

All my units are Humminbird Side Imaging.

Common sense use of Down Imaging helps interpret what regular 2D sonar is showing. Notice any difference between DI and 2D in these brush pile screen shots with both? How about the difference in the way this tree is represented with both technologies?

Any of the 14 versions of the Helix 7 would be a good choice. 6 discontinued models and 8 current ones. Just choose the sonar technology/s you want with or without GPS/Mapping.

The face of the transducer has to be at least on the same plane as the bottom of the hull. You could attach the mount to the underside of the step, but you would need to put a spacer between it and the mount bracket to lower it. I use that position with one of my transducers, but mine is above the hull bottom, boat can't get on plane with a 9.9 so it makes no difference. I drilled and tapped the holes to use bolts rather than sheet metal screws. I like the angle of the cable coming out of the transducer, much easier to do what you propose than with a Humminbird transducer.

MEGA Imaging is nice.

Contact John Jones http://www.jonestrollingmotor.com (870) 773-3474 He can tell you want the issue is and how to fix it.

Boating US and Canada

Look at the pictures of the BASS Elite pros and FLW Tour pros boats. You will see two 10" or two 12" displays on their consoles centered with a common mount.

My Zero Line Card is microSD in a SD adapter. I used it in a Helix 5 and Helix 7 when testing. Used it in my larger units with SD readers too. Did you get some old stock that is not compatible with your Helix 7?

The key thing is the knowledge of the actual person doing the install. Do they know how to properly install imaging sonar units so they perform like they should. You should ask what their experience is for that project. I have seen enough dealer installs that were done by the clueless.

I use 1/4 oz but not the junk ones produced since Zman was the brand, and rarely 3/8 oz. None heavier. If I need more weight for casting distance, I use a Live Magic Shad trailer.

You have a Side Imaging unit, it sees stuff to the sides and aerated water is "stuff" that reflects sonar pulses. The only way to prevent it is have the transducer over a foot below the hull bottom so it may not see it. Humminbird Side Imaging covers from the water's surface to past vertical under the transducer on both sides.

This screen shot is with a SI transducer a little higher above the hull bottom for stump clearance and it has disturbed water echoes on both sides, but still the keel side has more.

Your SI pulses are recording disturbed/aerated water coming off the hull. That is normal. Since the keel is deeper than the hull to the starboard side of the transducer, you get more disturbed water recorded on the port side. Same thing in this screen shot:

No Humminbird Helix models share map data via networking.

Yes, very simple. Export and then import.

That is because the bigger fish ARE higher in the water column than a lot of the smaller ones below them. That is why they are hard to catch when the water is muddy.

What fastners are you using to attach the ram to the unit?

Use Contrast some to lighten up the MEGA SI images. I like to use dual frequency for the FishID symbols so I get the gold high frequency and green med frequency symbols. Shows if more fish are in the area.

My electronics travel in my tow vehicle. They ride on the boat from the ramp parking lot to the water and then back to the ramp parking lot.

Good luck