Replacing thru-hull transducer with different brand

[src]

My new boat has an (apparently) dead Furuno FCV 600L, with a thru-hull transducer. I would like to switch to a Garmin unit (mainly because I have a 546s that I can use for now). I am just hoping that I can simply replace the transducer without changing the thru-hull fitting/fairing block. Are they standard sizes/threading? Am I asking for trouble?

Is it going to be as simple as unscrewing the existing transducer from the fitting and inserting the new one (quickly, assuming I can't get the new one before it is in the water), or is there something that will need to be done from the outside of the boat?

I noticed that the Raytheon speed/depth transducers have blanking plugs attached to them in case you need to remove them, but the Furuno doesn't, so I can't compare size/threads between them.

Thanks for any info/tips.

edit: fixed Garmin model number

 

[KC_Sundancer]

From what I understand, most transducers, regardless of the sonar manufacturer are made by Airmar
Here is their web site which may help in tracking down which one you have and part interchangeability.
http://www.airmartechnology.com/

Many use the same transducer with the end connector fitting being the difference.

 

[kaz911]

If it is the 10 pin Furuno - I think you can get a 10Pin to Garmin 6 pin pig tail (conversion cable)

and here is one: http://www.ebay.com/itm/Furuno-10-p...609?pt=LH_DefaultDomain_0&hash=item27be94b281

 

[Henry Boyd]

From what I understand, most transducers, regardless of the sonar manufacturer are made by Airmar
Here is their web site which may help in tracking down which one you have and part interchangeability.
http://www.airmartechnology.com/

Many use the same transducer with the end connector fitting being the difference.

The only thing you need to check for is the frequency of the transducer. I believe all of the new stuff uses the same frequency, the only question would be what was used in your original installation.

Henry

 

[src]

Thanks. Once the boat gets delivered I can get more information about the specific unit installed. Just going by memory, what I saw most closely matches this unit:

http://www.furunousa.com/Products/ProductDetail.aspx?product=525STID-MSD7&category=Products+%3a+Transducers+%3a+Transducers+w%2fSpeed+%26+Temp&category=Products+%3a+Transducers+%3a+Transducers+w%2fSpeed+%26+Temp

But again, I'll have to get hands-on before I know for certain.

 

[almostenuff]

The only thing you need to check for is the frequency of the transducer. I believe all of the new stuff uses the same frequency, the only question would be what was used in your original installation.

Henry

Not necessarily. 200kHz is common, but so is 235kHz. I just spent 20 hours researching a replacement for mine; that was with the assistance of Sea Ray, Raymarine and Airmar-everyone had a different opinion.

 

[kaz911]

235 kHz is "usual" for later model "Depth finders" - not so much Fish finders. That was done to keep it out of the 200 kHz for fish finders so they can operate at the same time. I don't think I have seen a 235kHz fish finder?

 

[src]

Never mind. I did some serious wire-tracing under the dash yesterday, and found out that the positive wire was disconnected from the accessory switch. The Furuno works like a charm, and I just saved some money.