I have a Raymarine VHF radio that works fine until I key the mic with the electronics on , when I do it bows the electronics fuse if I have the electronics (Lowrance 111) off I can use the radio with no problem. Any ideas??

Sounds like the circuit is overloaded. Try seperating them, and see what happens.

+ 1

do yourself a favor and run adleast 2 #14 awg wires to the battery.its o.k to fuse at the unit.this is a major reason for electronics failing. to much current draw on wiring at the helm.

Darkstar33,

Is this a new radio installation?
If so wehre is the radio antenna?


JDP

No it's not a new installation it's about a year and a half old, it worked fine 2 months ago when I used it last. I did put a swr meter on it just to make sure the antenna was tuned ok, and it was that's why I'm puzzled I double checked all my connections. I think I'm going to seperate the radio, and Lowrance.

Darkstarr,
What is the fuse rating on the electronics fuse?

It is no big deal to have both the Lowrance and the vhf radio on the same fuse.
Fuse the circuit so that it will blow before the wire melts. i.e. a 10 amp fuse can be used in a 16 gauge wiring circuit, and a 15 amp fuse can be used in a 14 gauge wiring circuit.

Then, if you want to add a different fuse for the Lowrance unit, that is a 3 or 4 amp fuse just for the Lowrance, go ahead and add it after the heavier general electronics fuse.

Take care
REW

p.s.
Be sure to check both the power and ground connections for all of your electronics. If the units both worked together at one time, but are not working now - it is quite posible that one of the power or ground connections has come loose or corroded. As a result of the poor connection, the voltage will drop, current will increase and the fuse will blow.

Take care
REW

p.p.s.
When, I say check connections - please check on all fuse holders, both the fuse itself, the internal wiring connections to the base of the fuse itself, as well as any crimped connections to the wiring, as well as the snap on connector to the fuse holder itself.

Any of these places could result in a poor connection, voltage drop, and increased current flow causing the fuse to blow.

That is one of the reasons that I dislike any inline fuses in a boat. Another set of connections, and fuses, and fuse holders to cause problems.

Another thing to do in a marine environment is to use silicon grease in all fuse holders and on all fuse connections. The silicone grease prevents moisture from getting to the fuse and connections and causing corrosion problems.

Take care
REW