My DSC VHF (a Simrad RD68 of uncertain age) is faulty.

[chuzzlewit]

The lower half of the array of rubber buttons respond to finger pressure but the upper half need to be pressed hard with a pencil before they peep. Not good for the rubber. Seems like a mechanical problem. A professional repair would probably cost more than a new radio. Should I scrap it or attempt a DIY repair? Any advice gratefully received.

 

[elton]

Take it apart and clean the back of the buttons and the pcb contacts by rubbing with clean kitchen roll soaked in meths.

 

[Falling Star]

Take it apart and clean the back of the buttons and the pcb contacts by rubbing with clean kitchen roll soaked in meths.

Good advice, that will probably fix it. However, to me the RD68 is not a particularly good radio even when it is working. Didn't need any persuasion to get rid of mine.

Now fitted a Garmin 200i and found this to be more user friendly and with many more useful features.

 

[chuzzlewit]

Thanks elton. I'll try the meths. Falling Star is right:the VHF came with the new second hand boat. It certainly isn't easy to use.

 

[Falling Star]

Thanks elton. I'll try the meths. Falling Star is right:the VHF came with the new second hand boat. It certainly isn't easy to use.

I'm guessing you are talking about your MF805. If the radio is fitted in the same position as mine, i.e. above the window, then the Garmin is a close fit in the existing cut-out. Also, the Garmin has a 2-way communication/loudspeaker function plus an auto fog horn facility.

I fitted an external hailer/microphone to the starboard side coach roof. Easy wiring as it is just a metre or less from the radio. Very handy to talk to deck crew.

 

[nigelmercier]

I would use IPA rather than methylated spirit, the latter can leave a residue.

If that doesn't work, and assuming they are the rubber buttons with a contact on the back (like a TV remote), get some Keypad Fix: http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/221047711805

 

[KenMcCulloch]

Our boat came with one of these and when it stopped working I was very happy to have the excuse to replace it with a much superior SH radio. The Simrad is a very poor piece of design in lots of ways IMO, not at all intuitive to operate and the tiny display means that persons of mature years need to find the specs to operate.

 

[30boat]

I too got rid of my RD68 when it failed for the third time.I think I'll get a SH.

 

[elton]

I would use IPA rather than methylated spirit, the latter can leave a residue.

Never had any residue that I could detect.

 

[Falling Star]

I would use IPA rather than methylated spirit, the latter can leave a residue.

- tastes better though!