Furuno 1832 Radar Glitch?

[Exile]

I have a 1998 Furuno model 1832 green-screen radar with a 24" radome that has been flawless until my most recent trip when it would intermittently fail to display any targets. With 2200 hours, I initially thought it was time to replace the magnetron. Rather than a gradual loss of sensitivity, however, it appears instead to be either on or off. One variable may be the cold weather we were sailing in when it malfunctioned, with it restoring itself once the weather warmed up a bit.

Anybody know if this sounds symptomatic of a failing magnetron or possibly in the wiring? I read that Furuno is no longer supporting this model, and don't know if purchasing a new magnetron or antenna wire is even an option. It has otherwise been an excellent unit so I am hesitant to bail on it.

Thanks for any info.

Dan

[donradcliffe]

Before doing anything drastic, look at the junction in the wiring where the cable has been cut to remove the mast. The signal is in the coax cable, and that is subject to corrosion where it is joined.

[Exile]

Originally Posted by donradcliffe

Before doing anything drastic, look at the junction in the wiring where the cable has been cut to remove the mast. The signal is in the coax cable, and that is subject to corrosion where it is joined.

Great tip -- thanks. I know exactly where that junction is and it's easy to check once I am back on the boat.

Dan