Best depth sounder and compass for H26?

[CHSN WND]

The Uniden QT-206 depth sounder that came on my '96 H26 has become hard to read, particularly in daylight. The plastic cover on the face has become UV damaged - prior owner never covered it. Same with the compass - the plastic cover is completely clouded over.

What would you folks recommend? Any tips on where to buy would also be appreciated. If anyone has a depth sounder, compass or other nav instruments in good used condition that are gathering dust, let me know. So long as they work and are in generally good condition, I'd be interested.

 

[David in Sandusky]

I replaced the plastic cover on the depth read-out 3 years ago, and that has worked fine. It allowed us to use the existing through-hull transponder.

But we bought a new compass of the same make as the original to ensure quality of the compass. I don't know of any way to polish the finish on a compass globe - maybe someone else does!

 

[twodzusfittings]

Your depth sounder is remarkably similar to a Hawkeye D10, at least the gauge end. They are available through Amazon, West Marine, Cabellas, Defender and a lot more. Check them out. Your compass can be replaced. Measure your cut out and go to www.ritchienavigation.com. Nearly every online or physical store will have them.

 

[CHSN WND]

Thanks - I did see both Hawkeye and Faria gauges that seem like potential replacements. I also found a replacement Uniden on eBay, so I'll buy that one since I know it'll fit and work with my existing transducer.

Not sure about the compass - it's non-essential since I have a nice Garmin handheld GPS that measures speed, direction and tracks my route. Every smartphone has s compass as well. Might consider adding stereo speakers instead, since the hole is already cut for the compass.

 

[isaksp00]

There is some value to a compass, since the GPS and phone don't show bearing unless you are moving. That said, it may only be of use if you ever take bearings to determine position (and you need paper charts), and that can be done more easily with a handheld bearing compass.

 

[CHSN WND]

Thanks - that makes sense. I sail inland lakes and never lose site of the shore, so I've never missed the compass. I was thinking about replacing it mainly for aesthetics, but started wondering if I might do more good by wiring in cockpit stereo speakers. Those would both serve a better purpose and solve the aesthetics issue.

 

[Fred]

I installed a HawkEye depth sounder this past summer. I purchased the unit for about $100. The transducer is epoxied to the hull under the v-berth near the front end of the ballast tank. The arrangement seems to work well. Depth reading sometimes drops out while motoring. Not sure why that is.

 

[CHSN WND]

Hi Fred - that's one I was looking at until I found a new QT-206 on eBay for $60. I already have the transducer in place so it should be a quick install.

I think Hawkeye might also sell a weather cover. In our climates, that's probably a smart investment. I'll have to track one down.

 

[Fred]

Yes the HawkEye has a weather cap that I install when not using the unit.

I purchased the HawkEye because it was reportedly compatible with the transducer that was previously installed. When connected the old transducer did not appear to work so I ended up replacing it as well.