Radar Problem

[labrador]

I have a 1731 furuno radar which would not give a return last fall. Over the winter I had a chance to pick up the same display unit on ebay for less than 200.00 and figured that would solve the problem. As usual with electrical items I was wrong as the replacement unit turns on however no return. If I turn the gain up all the way I get a sweep or two near the center which fades away on the next sweep. The antenna is a closed array however is turning and all connections look to be in order. Any suggestions as to what next to look at?

 

[Karl]

When I bought my 32 Hatteras six months ago, it had a 1731. I removed it and the antenna dome and took it to Commerical Electronics in Ft Laud to check out, cost me $150. They said the CRT was OK, but the magnetron (sp) needed replacing, this is part of the antenna. The cost was estimated at $750 installed, less testing fee. They said that after installing the new magnetron, they would be able to test the meka (sp) and that could be another $600. Only one month warrantee. I found Consumer Marine Electronics on the Internet and bought a Furuno 1715 for $1400, which is very similar to the 1731 features and sold my old 1731 to the local electronics place for $200 (net $50 after testing).

In reading the manual on the new 1715, it says that the magnatron is the first thing that can burn out from continuous running of the antenna. The alternative is to use their watchman feature that turns it on periodically and checks for a change in your designated "guard zone".

I would assume that your problem may be with the magnetron.

Karl

 

[Mike36c]

If it turns out you need a basic radar I have a 1721 mark2 for a good price.

 

[labrador]

Email with the specs and price skip@xssmith.com

 

[StratPlan61]

I don't know much about RADARs, but just enough to know this from my experience. My 72mi color FURUNO wasn't providing much of a return so I called the marine electronics guys in to check it out. They removed both units from the boat, bench tested everything, replaced a few diodes and reinstalled everything. About $850 total and she works like new. I was glad I called the experts, IMHO money well spent. I have a great RADAR which is now working great and don't feel like I spent too much. This was in Ft Lauderdale, FL. I can provide specifics if desired.

Bear'
1984 61' MY Strategic Plan