Lowrance X-85

[pigboy]

I've got a problem with my X-85. the depth flashes alot. I've cleaned the transducer, powered it off, but after about a minute or two, it starts flashing again. Anyone had this same problem? What can I do before sending it back to the manufacturer.

Thanks

[Crank]

Pigboy,

There may be a few reasons why the depth is flashing. I am not specifically knowledgable on the physical electronic side of things however I have had the problem on a Lowrance X-75 & an Eagle ultra II Plus.
1) Eliminate any possibility of an interruption in the power supply from your battery to the unit. Make sure both the power and transducer connection are free of oxidation. If the unit has a short or loose connection from the power source it may not be able to initiate.
You can also check the input voltage from the menu on the unit to see if the voltage is constant when the unit is turned on.

2)Doggedly check for abrasions in the transducer cable itself. Punctured or frayed coax may be the culprit. Verify that the wire leading into the transducer and into the back of the unit are intact.

3) If all of this checks out o.k.? Than it is very likely that the transducer crystal has gone bad. If that is the case you can purchase a puck or skimmer either over the net or at your local Lowrance dealer.(for less than $70-- I believe) I have had every issue that I mentioned above, so this is solely based on experience not necessarily on carnal knowledge of the internal circuitry of the unit.
I haved owned 2 of the X85's and loved them both with no internal component problems whatsoever.

Good Luck... Hope this helps.

Crank

[pigboy]

Sorry, forgot to mention, these two tidbits.

1. the unit was bought this time last year.

2. The rest of the screen is fine, speed, temp, bottom composition ect.

I'll check the other things, but I don't think that its the peoblem.

thanks for the help.

[Crank]

Obviosly you have the transducer mounted to the transom.

If the unit is less than 1yr old and you feel there is something wrong with it send it in now and pay the Ship/Handling?

It sounds like you have don't have a lot of confidence in the problem being related to the power source as the speed and temp operate fine.

One other possible overlooked option is the placement of the transducer or the angle. Air bubbles or prop wash may be your problem. One quick test is to put the boat in the water and test the transducer position by manually manipulating the angle while the boat is drifting and the motor is off. By changing the position of the transducer by hand you should be able to pick up bottom. Each time you change the angle give the unit at least 5 seconds to respond. I can actually hear the transducer pulse tick when it's running properly.


Crank

[Pigboy]

I'll give it a whirl the next time I'm on the water!!

I've got a queasy feeling that its going to have to go back, though.

thanks for the good information.

[Shellback]

I bought a new X-85 last July, and had a problem right out of the box. It would show depth and bottom for a few moments till I got out over deeper water, and then it would flash at the last depth. Speed and Temp was fine so I had them send me a new X-ducer. No dice! That didn't help and then they sent me a new unit. Fixed me right up. I'd call and send it in now if you still have warrenty left!