Eagle 480 with MinnKota Universal Sonar?

[ShortStorie]

I have a 4yr old MinnKota 74 with the built in Universal Sonar transducer. The Lowrance X75 currently installed is behaving erratically and I am considering replacing it with an Eagle FishMark 480. Is this unit compatible with the existing transducer? If so, will the existing transducer give the same performance as the one that comes with the 480? Also, the connectors on the back of the 480 seem to be different than the ones on the X-75. Where can I get the required adaptor?
I am also toying with the idea of a Humminbird in that location but was wondering if I would have to switch transducers to utilize the dual beam feature? If so, can another transducer be made to fit in the existing Universal Sonar mounting?

Thanks,

Mark

[Barnacle Bill]

First of all you would need the MKR-US-9 adaptor cable (available at BPS) for the 480 to work with your US. The biggest drawback with the older US is the cone is only 14° which limits your field of view. The newer US-1 has a 20° cone. Also the older US is not compatible with the dual beam feature. The newer US-1 is.
I looked into replacing my old US but am told it can't be done so I mounted my xducer that came with my Lowrance. Hope that helps.

[ShortStorie]

Thanks... I was afraid of that.

[ShortStorie]

Just got back from Cabela's. The guys in the marine department gave me the name and number of the local Minn Kota/ Motorguide technician who, they said had converted a customers conventional TM to a Universal Sonar unit. (The Minn Kota website said it was possible but expensive and would void your warranty). My unit is out of warranty and already has the older model universal sonar housing and transducer so it shouldn't be outrageously expensive to update.... Will call him Monday to find out. Also decided to go with the X-96... couple extra bells and whistles and I like the display better than the Eagle's amber color.

[ShortStorie]

IBFSHN was right... The local Minn Kota tech called the factory tech who said it COULD be done but the price of PARTS alone might exceed $300. Guess I'll have to choose between using the existing transducer (with the 6 degree narrower cone angle) or running wire for an external set up.