vhf woes

[Lumpy]

While taking a recent run to out on the bay I realized that I was no longer hearing traffic on my VHF radio. I checked the digital display and it appeared off even though the switch was in the on position. So, I did what every red blooded American male would do. I hit it. The radio began functioning again, but became increasingly intermittent. I ran down the list of usual suspects; Loose connections, fuses, ect.; all unsuccessfully.

the question is this: is it worth sending the unit (a 6 year old Ray210) for an evaluation or have these too become wear items that are just as readily replaced?

Thanks for any advice.


Dave

 

[Four Suns]

I would suspect either lose or corroded connections. There is a splice connection also in your arch you should check. I had a coax cable connector go bad (the hard top splice connection for the KVH) and you would have never known it by looking at it. I ended up in sheer frustration replacing coax connectors until it worked and that one just fell apart when I pulled on it....

A radio should last longer than 6 years...

 

[estebanj]

Considering the cost of a new basic VHF, consider just replacing it. Take into account the mount and whether you'll have to adjust screw holes, openings, etc.

Esteban

 

[Pirate]

The new radio is cheap, but it may not fix your issue. If you have a corroded/faulty power connection that is upstream of the radio, replacing it will not fix your problem.

When the radio is not working, test the voltage at the radio with a meter. If there is power there during the failure, your issue may be internal to the radio. If not, the problem is upstream.

 

[fc3]

I think the 210 has a built-in voltmeter. Check you manual. You can use that to check if your radio is getting good power. There's no easy test for the antenna connection.

A good working VHF is important. If your is not reliable, replace it with either an Icom or a Standard Horizon. Those manufacturers consistently are top rated in performance. Everything else is either less performance for the same money (for example: Raymarine), or junk (example: Uniden).

Best regards,
Frank

 

[mrsrobinson]

While taking a recent run to out on the bay I realized that I was no longer hearing traffic on my VHF radio. I checked the digital display and it appeared off even though the switch was in the on position. So, I did what every red blooded American male would do. I hit it. The radio began functioning again, but became increasingly intermittent. I ran down the list of usual suspects; Loose connections, fuses, ect.; all unsuccessfully.

the question is this: is it worth sending the unit (a 6 year old Ray210) for an evaluation or have these too become wear items that are just as readily replaced?

Thanks for any advice.


Dave

I think it's time for a newer, bigger boat with a better VHF. When I think about upgrading our electronics I just tell the Mrs "a bigger newer boat would have better electronics".

BTW, you made me laugh with the red blooded American hit it comment...thanks!