If you’re a marine electronics enthusiast, professional mariner, or boat owner interested in Furuno’s legacy offerings, understanding which products have been discontinued is essential. This list covers key Furuno models no longer in production, detailing their features, why they were popular, and whether they’re still worth considering for your navigation or communication needs.
Furuno NavNet TZtouch Series
The NavNet TZtouch series was Furuno’s flagship line of multifunction displays, combining radar, sonar, GPS, and chart plotting into one integrated system. Discontinued in favor of the newer TZtouch2 and TZtouch3 series, these units like the NavNet TZtouch 12 and 14 offered high-resolution screens and intuitive touch controls. They are still highly regarded for their reliability and user-friendly interface, making them a solid choice for boaters who prefer a tried-and-true system, especially if you find a good deal on used models.
Furuno FCV582L Fish Finder
The FCV582L was a popular open-array fish finder used by anglers and commercial fishermen. It featured a 600-watt transducer and a 10-inch color display, delivering clear, detailed sonar images for deep-sea and freshwater fishing. Although discontinued, many fishermen still value this model for its robust build and excellent target separation, making it a worthwhile pick if you find one secondhand or for parts.
Furuno GMX1200 Series Chartplotters
The GMX1200 series was known for its large, bright displays and advanced charting capabilities, including compatibility with Navionics and C-MAP charts. Discontinued as Furuno shifted focus to the TZtouch series, these chartplotters are still reliable for navigation and come with excellent waterproofing and ruggedness for harsh marine environments. They’re particularly appealing to users who prefer dedicated chartplotters over integrated systems.
Furuno DRS4W Radar
The DRS4W was a 4kW, 24-inch open-array radar favored for its long-range detection and reliable performance. It featured Furuno’s PureSignal technology to reduce clutter and false echoes. Although it has been phased out, the DRS4W remains a favorite among boaters who need dependable radar for offshore navigation, especially if they can find refurbished units.
Furuno RD33 Radar Display
The RD33 was a dedicated radar display unit used with Furuno’s open-array radar systems. It offered a bright, easy-to-read interface with customizable overlays. Since it is no longer produced, users seeking replacements or upgrades often turn to newer Furuno models, but the RD33 still holds value for those maintaining older systems.
Furuno BBW Series Fish Finders
The BBW series, including models like the BBW-150, were compact, affordable fish finders ideal for small boats and kayaks. They featured simple interfaces and decent sonar capabilities. While discontinued, these models remain accessible on the used market and are still effective for casual anglers or as backup units.
Furuno NavPilot 700 Series Autopilots
The NavPilot 700 series was a popular autopilot system designed for easy integration with Furuno’s navigation systems. It provided reliable course-keeping and route management, especially for cruising boats. Discontinued in favor of newer, more advanced autopilots like the NavPilot 711 and 711C, the 700 series still offers dependable performance for traditional boat setups.
Furuno GP1871F GPS Chartplotter
The GP1871F was a compact GPS/chartplotter combining accurate positioning with detailed charting, suitable for small to medium-sized vessels. It was appreciated for its user-friendly interface and reliable GPS signal. Although no longer in production, it remains a solid option for budget-conscious boaters seeking dependable navigation.
Furuno FA-150 AIS Transponder
The FA-150 was an AIS transponder that enhanced situational awareness by transmitting and receiving vessel positions. It was compatible with Furuno’s radar systems and provided critical collision avoidance data. Discontinued as newer, integrated AIS solutions emerged, the FA-150 still performs well in older setups or for users who prefer standalone AIS units.
How to Choose
When selecting discontinued Furuno products, consider compatibility with your existing system, the availability of replacement parts, and your specific navigation or fishing needs. Focus on the core features that matter most—such as display size, radar range, or sonar depth—and verify that the unit’s specifications match your vessel’s requirements. Also, assess whether the product has a strong support community or access to refurbished units, as discontinued models may lack official manufacturer support over time.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Are discontinued Furuno products still reliable? Yes, many discontinued models like the FCV582L or DRS4W remain highly reliable due to their robust build and proven technology, especially if well-maintained.
- Can I find parts or support for discontinued Furuno products? Support and parts availability vary; some older models may be difficult to repair through Furuno directly but can often be serviced by third-party marine electronics specialists or through used markets.
- Is it worth buying a discontinued Furuno system today? It depends on your needs; if you find a well-maintained unit at a good price, it can be a cost-effective solution, especially for backup or secondary systems.
- Will discontinued Furuno products work with modern navigation systems? Compatibility varies; newer systems may not support older models, so verify compatibility before purchasing or integrating older units into your vessel.
- What are the risks of using discontinued Furuno electronics? Risks include potential lack of official support, limited firmware updates, and difficulty sourcing replacement parts, which could impact long-term reliability.
Final Thoughts
Furuno’s discontinued products remain valuable assets for many boaters, anglers, and professionals who prioritize reliability and proven performance. While newer models offer advanced features and updated technology, older units like the NavNet TZtouch or FCV582L continue to serve well when properly maintained. Before purchasing a discontinued product, carefully consider your specific needs, support options, and whether the device fits into your existing system. With the right research and care, these legacy Furuno products can still deliver excellent navigation, fish-finding, and safety capabilities for years to come.
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