Simrad Shipmate 8400 repair

[RogerRat]

Has anyone had a problem with one of these or similar and found the right guy or service agent. I've googled around and found they are now Kongsberg Maritime but not really much help.

I need a recommendation for a clued up radio techy in the Solent area if poss.

The unit powers up but won't accept a channel selection. /forums/images/graemlins/confused.gif
(comes back with error message)

 

[jimg]

I had problem with one of these a while back and I spoke to Simrad who said it had been zapped by static. I sent it back and they re-programmed the channels free of charge. I think they did a mod to stop it happening again.
Hoqw old is your VHF?

 

[RogerRat]

Probably original equipment so 3 and a bit yrs. Funny you should mention reprogramming cos 'djefabs' had a similar experience but is trying to remember who fixed it. /forums/images/graemlins/confused.gif

I'd like to get it fixed though as it's a nice unit. But at least I have back up.

 

[andyball]

Roger

there's an outfit in port solent seemed to know a bit about 8300/8400's - is where I bought mine s/h.

Marine Electronics n Installation or similar

 

[jimg]

Same sort of vintage as mine, worth giving Simrad techies a call. They were very helpful and as I said fixed the problem free of charge.

 

[Nick_H]

Obviously worth trying to get it fixed first, but if you can't you should be able to find one s/h without too much difficulty. I bought a new handset (missing when I bought the boat), and a new main unit (broke), and paid about £60 for each. Greenham Regis in Lymington also keep used handsets, so may have some main boxes, but probably charge a bit more.

 

[RogerRat]

Many thanks chaps. I think I may have it sorted by next week by MEI - Port Solent as per Andy's suggestion. The RS8400 seems prone to losing the plot and more than just a few have needed reprogramming. The hand sets seem fine (because they show the same erroneous display. /forums/images/graemlins/confused.gif

I like the unit though and agree it's worth getting fixed. As for the Silva S15 ? /forums/images/graemlins/mad.gif Fiting the new battery didn't work and each time I turn it on I have to reset everything from contrast to Navtex... Think it'll get the boot!
/forums/images/graemlins/smirk.gif

 

[Hurricane]

Hi Roger
As Andy says - I had excellent service (mainly spares) for my 8400s from a company on Port Solent - I think he has the name correct - I'll look it up if you cant find it - let me know.

Also I once found one on Ebay I bidded (thought it would be good for spares) for it but was unsuccesfull - I think it went for less than £50 which would be less than the repair!!!

 

[peterb26]

Can I also add a plug for MEI on Port Solent.

Their website is http://www.meiltd.co.uk/

 

[RogerRat]

Thanks chaps, MEI are on it.
Like the idea for spares Mike. How's my next boat doing?

 

[RogerRat]

[ QUOTE ]
How's my next boat doing?

[/ QUOTE ]

Doh... Wash my mouth out! /forums/images/graemlins/blush.gif /forums/images/graemlins/frown.gif

 

[jrn]

Recently had exactly the same problem with a Shipmate 8300. I was told it needed to have the software re-loaded. I used R&J Marine in Ipswich - very helpful.

 

[RogerRat]

Thanks chaps, I went to Maritime Electronics in Porto Solento today. Apparently, the memory had fried from a spike and needs to be reprogrammed.

I came out with another cheapo base unit and they're very kindly going to get mine sorted.

So it'll be back on at the weekend... I'll be on channel 72A! /forums/images/graemlins/wink.gif /forums/images/graemlins/blush.gif

 

[stevieee]

Our Simrad RD68 went randomly phut in April.

Installed replacement radio (same model) today.

Must be something in the air ...

 

[jimg]

Told yah! /forums/images/graemlins/grin.gif

 

[RogerRat]

Yep - Sure Did, And you were right weren't you? /forums/images/graemlins/tongue.gif

Thanks. /forums/images/graemlins/smirk.gif

 

[RogerRat]

I had an RD68 on my Bav' too. I liked it and it was easy to use etc. I understand that they are prone to going phut as is the 83 & 8400's which I have.
(Have you a backup unit or hand held?)

It's rumoured that there is going to be new model replacing '68 later this year with a much larger LCD display.

Interesting point, the 83 & 8400's sell well in Holland as they don't want DSC units in the canals, anyone wanting to get rid of one could use a well known auction site.

See you down there. /forums/images/graemlins/wink.gif

 

[stevieee]

Hi Roger,

Yes - I got a waterproof handheld at the same time as the replacement RD68 for peace of mind.

Yes - will see you down there! /forums/images/graemlins/smile.gif