MLR FX spares availability

[samwise]

We inherited an MLR FX312 GPS with our boat. A great little instrument, nothing fancy but it does the job. Recently the plastic screen storm cover was blown off and damaged. My gaffer tape repair is not working, so I tried to get a replacement and contacted Mantsbrite who supplied the original instrument. I was told that the FX312 and the 412 were out of production and had been for two years and that spares were not available.

Is this true? I recall a fairly recent GPS comparison test in one of the yachting mags in which the MLR (possibly the 412, came out as a best buy. I know that one's recollection of a "recent" magazine issue can be hopelessly wrong, butI'm pretty sure this was within the past year. If the lady at Mansbrite is right, I feel it is a pretty poor piece of product support. I would not expect suppliers to immediately pull the plug on spares supplies and I feel that they have an obligation to provide backup for a reasonable amount of time. In the car industry ( another fast-moving business) I think it is at least 10 years, possibly longer. Can anyone shed any light?

<hr width=100% size=1>

 

[Talbot]

Had the same thing happen with my gas powered water heater - needed a new diaphram (small bit of rubber worth a couple of pounds) - not available said the company that used to import them, "but would you like to buy this other model that we now import"

Kim wont allow me to post my response /forums/images/icons/smile.gif

<hr width=100% size=1>

 

[starboard]

Think you may find if memory serves correct that the manufaturer ahs been taken over by "Thales" I believe an American company, look at thier web site maybe they will be able to help.

Paul

<hr width=100% size=1>

 

[claudio]

I'm of the understanding that manufacturer's must keep spares for 7 years after the end of production. This might not be applicable to all manufacturer's, but it's certainly a question to ask the sales people BEFORE you buy their product. Good luck with your search for the spare, somebody must have one.

<hr width=100% size=1><A target="_blank" HREF=http://shop.yachtronics.co.uk>http://shop.yachtronics.co.uk</A>

 

[dickh]

Try looking on eBay - both the UK & US site - you may be able to find one. I have found parts for an old Magellan this way(bought them from the US & then the Magellan was stolen before they arrived!)

<hr width=100% size=1>dickh
I'd rather be sailing... /forums/images/icons/smile.gif

 

[BobAndrew]

Have a look at the magellan website as the MLR FX312 is listed as one of their products. (Thales)
www.magellan.com

<hr width=100% size=1>

 

[BobAndrew]

Incorrect web address try www.magellangps.com/en/

<hr width=100% size=1>