I don't already have a Garmin chart plotter. I have a ray marine dragonfly (https://smile.amazon.com/gp/product/B00BSG22Y2/) that honestly really sucks. any time im moving the transducer stops reading depth. I'm not opposed to upgrading that setup as part of this project.

I appreciate your input. I'll research the Garmin ones. I felt like they were new to the market so maybe not as reliable, but if you're having a good experience with them then maybe that's an unfounded fear.

thanks again.