Garmin sounder/fish finder issues

loafer-roatan · 10-15-2009, 08:25 PM

Hello:
I own two Garmin fish finders. A 545s and a 178c. I bought the 545 as an upgrade, but hung on to the 178c for a back-up. My boat has been sitting on it's mooring for two weeks with the 545s in the centre console locked up and the 178c has been in my closet for about five months.

A couple days ago I went to use the 545s and it did not power up. The LCD does not turn on. I thought it was corrosion so I cleaned the pins and plugged it back in, both nothing. I know it's getting power because the buttons are lit. So I took it out, changed the cord and put in the 178c. They still won't power up.

Can they both be bad? Is there some kinda trick I'm missing? Any infor will be great before I try and send them to Garmin.
Cheers
AE

CMBobby · 10-16-2009, 10:24 AM

From where I'm sitting it sounds like it's a voltage problem. If you have a volt-meter, or multi-meter I would check with that tool first to make sure you are getting enough voltage required to your machines. If you are getting at or below 10 volts then it may do something like what you are experiencing, but not completely function.

Many times, especially when at mooring, boats will have small draws of electricity coming from things like stereos (especially if your clock is always right

) and that will take enough juice out or your battery to make things act a little funny. If that's not the case then you may have to give Garmin a call and see what they can work out for you, but I would test that first.

Let us know if you've got any other questions! Thanks, and have a great day,

loafer-roatan · 10-16-2009, 10:59 AM

Bobby:
Cheers for the speedy reply. I'll check it out, but I don't think it's an issue. I always turn my dual batteries off while at the mooring and I had an electrician take a look. I'll check it again. Garmin says they'll fix the 545s for free!!!!
A

CMBobby · 10-16-2009, 01:09 PM

Glad to hear that Garmin is being as helpful as usual. Let me know if there is anything else we can help out with. Have a great weekend.

P.S. Nice picture of the Grady!