Lowrance 7200c Antenna Problems

[Ketchitdave]

Hi there, My Lowrance 7200c, which I brought just three years ago now has a problem in acquiring satellites. I must say Lowrance were very responsive to my internet email inquiry and have suggested that I replace the antenna. Lowrance have suggested I purchase their now alternative 125-28 antenna. Replacement cost in Aus $400, web searches from America $249AUD.
Has anyone else had the same problem and does the antenna fix the problem

[Moonlighter]

Normally the first suggestion from Lowrance is to make sure you have the most up to date software version on your unit, as that seems to solve the problem sometimes.

Then have a look at the FAQ's on the Lowrance website - this is a common issue and they have a number of suggestions there on how to try to solve it. If that all fails to sort it, then see if you can test out a new antenna either by borrowing one or taking your head unit to someone else's boat with a similar unit and plugging into theirs. Make sure the antenna cable is not damaged or kinked.

Then last solution is new antenna - will usually sort you out, and yes, I'd be bringing one in from the US if it was me. Check Brownspoint Marine they have Lowrance/Suzuki antennas $200 http://store.brownspoint.com/detail....id=990C0-88120, just check it will plug into your GPS - correct plug. email them they'll advise.

Cheers

ML

[Ketchitdave]

Normally the first suggestion from Lowrance is to make sure you have the most up to date software version on your unit, as that seems to solve the problem sometimes.

Then have a look at the FAQ's on the Lowrance website - this is a common issue and they have a number of suggestions there on how to try to solve it. If that all fails to sort it, then see if you can test out a new antenna either by borrowing one or taking your head unit to someone else's boat with a similar unit and plugging into theirs. Make sure the antenna cable is not damaged or kinked.

Then last solution is new antenna - will usually sort you out, and yes, I'd be bringing one in from the US if it was me. Check Brownspoint Marine they have Lowrance/Suzuki antennas $200 http://store.brownspoint.com/detail....id=990C0-88120, just check it will plug into your GPS - correct plug. email them they'll advise.

Cheers

ML

Thanks heaps ML for the very valuable feedback. I must admit I never thought of using another unit to complete a test. Great advice. Yes, I have read the FAQ's and reinstalled the unit's software from Lowrance. If the additional tests confirm a problem with the antenna I will be intouch with brownspoint. David

[aharding]

Lowrance have so many problems with their antenna's BUT, most people throw them away and just as lowrance always say, "just buy a new one" not realising the issue is normally a pulled/kinked wire and or, minor pin corrosion / connection, go through all connections well to check as well as cable with a fine tooth comb. Even coiling excess cable and cable tieing causes issues.

[Moonlighter]

Good advice above. A clean of all the electrical contacts and a spray with electrical contact cleaner can really help too.

I actually have a spare Lowrance antenna cable (brand new in the box ) that I dont need so if that turns out to be the problem, PM me and Im sure we can sort you out.

ML

[Ketchitdave]

Good advice above. A clean of all the electrical contacts and a spray with electrical contact cleaner can really help too.

I actually have a spare Lowrance antenna cable (brand new in the box ) that I dont need so if that turns out to be the problem, PM me and Im sure we can sort you out.

ML

Thanks heaps "aharding" and "Moonlighter" for your valuable feedback and support. A weekend of checking the wiring and cable terminations seems to have fixed the problem. Here's hoping.

Best regards, David