Lowrance GPS antenna - sounds like its full of BB's

[FlyBoy]

I took my Global Map 3000 off my boat, to put on the new boat. When I removed the antenna, I noticed it sounded like there was something 'loose' inside?

It appears to be a sealed unit, so I can't investigate.

The last time I used it (last fall) it worked great. Anyone have any ideas? Or had one do the same thing?

I don't know if I should try to use it or send it in for repair?

Thanks,

-John

[Dutchman]

If it works don't fix it.

"Fishing is the pursuit of what is elusive but attainable, a perpetual series of occasions for hope"

[REW]

If you can hear something rattling around inside, something has certainly broken loose.

Generally speaking - if something is broken, it should be fixed.
However, in this case, if it doesn't affect the signal strength or operation of the GPS, I would also probably leave it alone.

If in doubt, you might think about having a 2nd gps antenna on hand, so that you would have a spare if needed.

It is possible, that a piece of plastic or other non functional (electrically) has broken loose and the unit will work fine for you.

On the other hand, it is possible that some component has broken free, and may cause current or future problems.

It might make sense to call lowrance and get their opinion.
Certinly it would be a good idea to have it fully functional before the heavy boating season is here.

Take care
REW

[Sunshine]

Have you tried to replace the machine screws back on to the unit that holds it in place on your boat?

My guess is that one of the nuts that hold those machine screws in place has some how gotten loose and is no longer where it should be. Put your mounting machine screws back in and see what happens.