VHF Radio on a RIB

Andy · 23 July 2004, 11:27

All, we have a ICOM M-401 on our rib (Good Radio). It's permanently fixed. Salt buildup around the ON/OFF volume and also the Channel selector seizes up the switches and makes them stiff ... Eventually the plastic knob is not able to turn the stiff switch and spins on the shaft making it impossible to operate the switches without pliers etc. You then need to buy new knobs as you have buggered them by forcing them.

My tip for the day .... if your switches are nice and free, pop the plastic knobs off and silicon grease them to help stop salt getting in there in the first place. This is good preventative action.

Just been through all this. While resolving and sourcing the new knobs, normal operation of the radio was not possible and we could have come a cropper if we had to use the VHF quickly in an incident.

Also ICOM where stars and provided new knobs very quickly

Nick Hearne · 23 July 2004, 11:46

Hi was it not under the 3 year guaranty?
Nick

Andy · 23 July 2004, 12:08

yes it was they sent the knobs for free

Jelly · 23 July 2004, 15:04

Hi Guys
I think you might find a line ing the manual suggesting that you wash the salt water off after each trip.
Though ttrey not to leave water standing on the radios or any toher electrical kit come to mind - it will get in eventually so don't help it!
JAmes

Andy · 23 July 2004, 15:16

Yes thats good advice, however the boat and everything else is washed after each trip religiously.... maybe the wash water is not getting into that area under the knob sufficiently to clean it. I have always been loathed to take a hose directly onto switches, maybe i should start!!

The silicon grease trick will help also.

Tight Fart · 23 July 2004, 15:22

Yes, you should always wash under your knobs.

Andy · 23 July 2004, 16:51

I was waiting for that one!!!

Jon Brooks · 25 July 2004, 08:30

Quote:

Originally Posted by Jelly

Hi Guys
I think you might find a line ing the manual suggesting that you wash the salt water off after each trip.
Though ttrey not to leave water standing on the radios or any toher electrical kit come to mind - it will get in eventually so don't help it!
JAmes

Hi Guys and Jelly

You should indeed wash all round the radio after use inc the knobs!!!
The set is designed to take it.
If it lets in water (and it should not) we will replace it.

Hope that helps

Regards