Updating my garmin 178c

loafer-roatan · 04-01-2009, 06:07 PM

Anyone know what newer Garmin chart plotter/sounded I can buy that will replace my older 178C without having to upgrade my transducer and GPS receiver.
Thanks
AE

FASTFJR · 04-01-2009, 06:11 PM

Garmin 498C, The redraw and overall speed is much faster than the 178C. It also fits into the same mounting bracket

loafer-roatan · 04-01-2009, 07:03 PM

what about the 545?

sandyda · 04-02-2009, 09:08 AM

You will want the 545S (for sounder) or the lower res 540S. These have built in charts. The chart carts for your 178C don't fit. These have built in GPS antennas that are better than you existing mushroom, but they can use it if the unit will be under a heavy roof. Your transducer will work. If you had the right charts on the right cartridge (SD) you could save more money buying the model without preloaded charts. My recc is the 545SX which comes with the XM weather antenna. Sweet.