King VHF Radio

[dave]

I have an older King model 8000 radio that came with the boat when I bought it. When I turn it on it initializes in international mode and with the hail function mode turned on. I went through a reinitialization procedure twice after which it should just turn on to channel 16. This works for a short time then it goes back to the same problem. After I switch the functions off the radio transmits and receives properly. I'm wondering why the internal memory is decaying or if any of you electronic technicians out there have any thoughts? Perhaps time for a new radio? I believe this one is now about 15 or 16 years old. New in 1986.dave

 

[Larry Watkins]

Retire the radio

Dave; Get a new VHF. They're all solid-state, with reliable memory, less power consumption, a two year warranty, and you can get one for $150. Larry W.

 

[Rodney Kidd]

Backup Battery

Dave,Given the vintage of the radio, it may have a backup battery installed internally. Over time, the backup batteries go dead. This causes the radio to revert to factory defaults. The backup battery may be replaceable or may be soldered directly to the circuit board. The only way to tell is to open the radio and look. The operation manual would also mention the backup battery and the replacement schedule. With new radios so inexpensive and better performers, maybe it is time to retire the radio.Rodney KiddC-38 #297, Flying Bear