Let’s Dive into Rig Rite 900 Vertical Transducer Plate
The Rig Rite 900 Vertical Transducer Plate offers a smart solution for boat owners who want to avoid drilling permanent holes below the waterline when installing a fish finder transducer. Manufactured by Rig Rite, this plate promises easy installation, adjustability, and protection against leaks, all at an affordable price of $43.79. It seemed like the perfect fix when I upgraded my old fish finder to a newer, more advanced model.
I’ve spent countless hours fishing, and the thought of a leaky transducer mount always loomed large. My old setup was a mess of silicone and hope. The Rig Rite 900 Vertical Transducer Plate appealed to me as a way to simplify installation and provide future flexibility without compromising hull integrity.
Unboxing the plate, my initial impression was positive. The high-density polyethylene felt solid and well-made. The included stainless steel hardware was a welcome touch, indicating a focus on durability.
I considered a few other options before landing on the Rig Rite plate. Some were suction-cup mounted, but I worried about their reliability at higher speeds. Others were more complex, multi-part systems that seemed overkill for my needs; plus, they cost considerably more. The Rig Rite 900 Vertical Transducer Plate struck a good balance between simplicity, functionality, and price.
My first impression was excitement mixed with a bit of skepticism. Could something this simple really solve such a persistent problem? I was eager to put it to the test and see if it lived up to its promises.
Real-World Testing: Putting Rig Rite 900 Vertical Transducer Plate to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Rig Rite 900 Vertical Transducer Plate on my 18-foot aluminum fishing boat during a weekend trip to Lake Fork, a well-known bass fishing destination. The conditions were typical for early spring: cool mornings, moderate winds, and occasional light rain. The water was a bit choppy at times, providing a decent test for the plate’s stability.
Installation was surprisingly straightforward. I carefully measured and marked the desired location on my transom, using the existing holes from my old transducer mount as a guide. The provided hardware was ample and the plate mounted securely. It only took about an hour from start to finish, including adjusting the transducer to its optimal depth.
I didn’t experience any issues during my first outing. The transducer readings were clear and accurate, even at planing speeds. I was impressed by how stable the plate remained despite the choppy water and occasional wakes from other boats.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the Rig Rite 900 Vertical Transducer Plate continues to perform admirably. It has held up well to the rigors of fishing in both freshwater and saltwater environments. There are no signs of warping or corrosion, and the stainless steel hardware remains rust-free.
The plate itself has proven to be remarkably durable. I’ve bumped it against docks and submerged logs without any significant damage. Occasional cleaning with soap and water is all that’s needed to keep it looking like new.
Compared to my previous transducer mounting attempts, the Rig Rite 900 Vertical Transducer Plate is a clear winner. It offers superior stability, adjustability, and peace of mind knowing that I haven’t compromised the integrity of my boat’s hull. I no longer worry about leaks or the hassle of re-drilling holes every time I want to adjust my transducer.
Breaking Down the Features of Rig Rite 900 Vertical Transducer Plate
Specifications
The Rig Rite 900 Vertical Transducer Plate measures 18 inches in height and 5-9/16 inches in width. This generous size provides ample space for mounting a variety of transducer sizes and allows for vertical adjustment. It’s constructed from high-density polyethylene, a durable and UV-resistant material designed to withstand the harsh marine environment.
The plate’s design helps eliminate drilling permanent holes below the waterline. This prevents potential leaks and makes it easy to move, install, or adjust your transducer. The bottom of the plate can be easily cut to match any hull angle, ensuring a flush and secure fit.
Performance & Functionality
The Rig Rite 900 Vertical Transducer Plate excels at its primary function: providing a stable and adjustable platform for mounting a fish finder transducer. The plate’s rigidity ensures accurate readings, even at high speeds. Its vertical adjustability allows for fine-tuning the transducer’s depth to optimize performance in different water conditions.
One potential weakness is the lack of built-in cable management. While not a major issue, it would be a nice addition to keep the transducer cable organized and protected. Overall, the Rig Rite 900 Vertical Transducer Plate meets and exceeds my expectations for a transducer mounting solution.
Design & Ergonomics
The Rig Rite 900 Vertical Transducer Plate is designed for simplicity and ease of use. The smooth, flat surface provides a clean and professional look, while the rounded edges minimize the risk of snagging fishing lines. The high-density polyethylene is surprisingly lightweight, adding minimal weight to the boat’s transom.
The plate requires no specialized tools or skills to install, making it a user-friendly option for both experienced boat owners and novices. The ability to customize the bottom angle is a thoughtful touch that ensures a perfect fit on any hull shape.
Durability & Maintenance
The high-density polyethylene construction of the Rig Rite 900 Vertical Transducer Plate ensures long-lasting durability. This material is resistant to warping, corrosion, and UV damage, making it ideal for marine applications. Minimal maintenance is required; simply rinse the plate with fresh water after each use to remove salt and debris.
Given its robust construction and UV resistance, I expect the Rig Rite 900 Vertical Transducer Plate to last for many years with proper care. The stainless steel hardware further enhances its durability and corrosion resistance.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Rig Rite 900 Vertical Transducer Plate comes with stainless steel mounting hardware. There are no other included accessories. However, the plate’s standard dimensions make it compatible with a wide range of transducers and mounting brackets from various brands.
While there are no specific customization options offered by Rig Rite, the plate’s surface can be easily drilled or modified to accommodate unique mounting requirements. Some users may choose to add a cable management system or paint the plate to match their boat’s color scheme.
Pros and Cons of Rig Rite 900 Vertical Transducer Plate
Pros
- Eliminates the need to drill holes below the waterline, preventing leaks and potential hull damage.
- Provides a stable and adjustable platform for mounting fish finder transducers, ensuring accurate readings.
- Made from durable, UV-resistant high-density polyethylene that will not warp or corrode.
- Easy to install with included stainless steel hardware.
- Affordable price compared to other transducer mounting solutions.
Cons
- Lacks built-in cable management.
- The simple design may not appeal to boaters seeking a more aesthetically integrated look.
Who Should Buy Rig Rite 900 Vertical Transducer Plate?
The Rig Rite 900 Vertical Transducer Plate is perfect for boat owners who value simplicity, reliability, and affordability in a transducer mounting solution. It is ideal for anglers, recreational boaters, and anyone who wants to avoid drilling permanent holes in their boat’s hull. This product is a great solution for DIYers.
Boat owners with extremely high-performance boats who demand the absolute best in hydrodynamic efficiency might prefer a flush-mounted transducer. Also, those who prioritize aesthetics above all else might find the Rig Rite 900 Vertical Transducer Plate lacking in visual appeal.
A dab of marine sealant on the mounting screws is a must-have for extra protection against water intrusion. Also, a small cable clamp or tie to secure the transducer cable to the plate would be a helpful addition.
Conclusion on Rig Rite 900 Vertical Transducer Plate
The Rig Rite 900 Vertical Transducer Plate is a well-designed and functional product that delivers on its promises. It provides a simple, effective, and affordable solution for mounting a fish finder transducer without compromising the integrity of your boat’s hull.
At $43.79, the Rig Rite 900 Vertical Transducer Plate offers excellent value for money. It’s a worthwhile investment for any boat owner who wants to avoid the hassle and risk of drilling holes below the waterline.
I would wholeheartedly recommend the Rig Rite 900 Vertical Transducer Plate to anyone looking for a reliable and easy-to-install transducer mounting solution. Ditch the drill and embrace the Rig Rite – you won’t regret it!