New battery for an ACR-350B epirb

[onestepcsy37]

My epirb battery is about to expire. Has anyone tried to replace it with an aftermarket battery? Is one available?

Anyone know what ACR charges for the service?

[hellosailor]

Some guesses based on other ACR models. Probably $300, which will include a new battery, new case gasket, inspection and testing. (Supposedly.)


If that model comes apart with 4 stainless screws or similar, then it can be opened up and a web search probably will find you the battery type for $75. Most of them just unplug and replace, some have to be assembled in packs, some are actually potted in place. The gasket is usually an o-ring or other dollar part, and if it is not distorted a little silicone grease and cleaning are all it needs, then retorquing the case carefully so it is watertight again.


The other school of thought is that this is incredibly dangerous, almost as dangerous as lighting fires in your house in order to cook your own dinner. (Hey, some people are better off calling for reservations.(G)


Yes, it may be critical life saving equipment. But the job is more like changing flashlight batteries in a very high end flashlight, not brain surgery.

[Orion Jim]

Why leave it up to conjecture? Give them a call or send an email and get the answer. Personally when it comes time I'll probably just buy a new unit......I'm worth spending a couple bucks on.....my life might just depend on that little piece of space age wizardry.

[SoonerSailor]

I second Hellosailor. I've done it on another model. Its easy. Given my level of comfort with things mechanical and electronic, I would hate myself if I spent $300 for that battery change. But then again, my rescue notification systems are multiply redundant. Everyone's situation is different.

Chip


Sent from my iPhone using Cruisers Sailing Forum

[hellosailor]

Considering the number of "float free" EPIRBs I've seen hanging on commercial boats, usually with a couple of ounces of water visible inside the strobe dome, I think I'd rather inspect and replace the critical o-ring myself, rather than have some unmotivated anonymous tech left to maintain my equipment.


I've had highly qualified and certified auto mechanics put brake shoes in backwards. Doctors, surgeons and hospitals...let's not even go there.(G)


I wouldn't expect the average EPIRB owner to know how to test or repair the electronic components, but if you're going to trust your life safety to something, it isn't unreasonable to think you should be comfortable with routine maintenance of it.


Unless, of course, you also stick to full-service gas stations, because pumping your own gasoline, you know, its such a dangerous and odorsome process. Does New Jersey still ban self-pumping because of that danger?

[onestepcsy37]

Hellosailor, NJ still requires a station attendant to pump your gas. In spite of this, NJ has the lowest average gas price in the northeast, or one of the lowest. Neighboring PA is about twenty five cents higher. Also cheaper than FL, where I live.

Go figure.