VHF issues-gctid812117

[CptCrunchie]

My VHF radio receives but it won't transmit. Is there a simple fix, or do I need a new radio? I've always had good luck with iCom products, .......but have a Standard Horizon as a spare. Thought I'd ask before I pipit out and try the other radio.

Speaking of, ....I read it is illegal to use a Marine VHF on land. Since I am just a few miles away from the USCG station, I'm reluctant to even test it on land. Is there another way other than splashing it?

[Norton_Rider]

You can use a Shakespeare ART-3 tester: http://shakespeare-ce.com/marine/product/art-3-tester/

BTW, the FCC recently relaxed the rules regarding the use of a marine VHF radio on land. Unfortunately it is only for portable (handheld) radios, they have to be used close to shore, and only for operational and business needs of the main boat.

[TenMile]

It might be as simple as a shorted (defective) antenna. They have a finite life and last roughly 5-8 years.

Try this trick -- tune your VHF to one of the local Wx channels. Unscrew your antenna from the back of the VHF and remove it (the broadcast should disappear). Now, insert just the tip of the connector back into the radio again without letting the ring (the screw part) touch. The Wx channel should come back. Then, push the connector the rest of the way in so that the ring also connects. If the volume/clarity of the Wx channel fades, that means you have shorted antenna leads -- usually inside your antenna and it's time to get a new one.

SeaTow also have a VHF "radio check" channel. You can look up your area here: https://www.seatow.com/tools-and-edu...ed-radio-check

I can't see anyone bothering you for testing your VHF on shore to ensure your safe at sea.

[CptCrunchie]

"TenMile" post=812162 wrote:
It might be as simple as a shorted (defective) antenna. They have a finite life and last roughly 5-8 years.

.......it's time to get a new one.

No idea how old this one is, but it may be that time. I'm sure the radio should be okay, so there's only one other thing it could be. B)

"TenMile" post=812162 wrote:
SeaTow also have a VHF "radio check" channel. You can look up your area here: https://www.seatow.com/tools-and-edu...ed-radio-check

We don't have Sea-Tow radio check up on the Olympic Peninsula. Wish we did.

"TenMile" post=812162 wrote:
I can't see anyone bothering you for testing your VHF on shore to ensure your safe at sea.

I keep thinking that, .....but ya jes ne'er know. Thanks, Terry.