Forward scanning sonar built in hull?

[Traderjoe]

My first haul out I was surprised to find a cone like addition to my hull about 1.5 feet long. I was told it was forward scanning sonar. The hardware looking like a gear box is built into the hull is still in engine room.

Has anyone replaced this device? I am thinking it is old school. But can it be useful?

Can a modern transducer be mounted in the cone?

Can I take out the hardware built in easily?

Thank you in advance for any expertise or incite.

Mahalo!
Joe

 

[MYTraveler]

Sounds like you are describing a typical Furuno or Wesmar searchlight sonar. I have the Furuno CH250. The transducer is mounted to the end of a shaft that is hydraulically deployed through the cone. I had one installed in my last boat and liked it enough that I didn't hesitate to spec one for the current boat. I use it primarily for finding fish, as shallow water is rarely a problem on the west coast. There were plenty of times I used it for navigation in the PNW. It is also good for avoiding logs and other large debris.

 

[fgarriso]

Some pics would be helpful

 

[wkearney99]

First haul out brought this to your attention? Not the survey or other "just what do I have to maintain" looks-around? I mean, I get that some things might skip notice, but that's kinda obvious wasn't it?