Possible Solutions
Hi Christine.. I've seen alot of people with the same problem, and provided it's not an internal problem in the radio itself, it is almost always one of two things: 1st thing to check is your hi/lo power switch on the radio. This is a common switch to most VHF radios, and most people don't use it much so never pay attention to if it has been depressed by accident. The low power side of the switch is meant for talking with other boats in the same area without broadcasting for miles. If the switch is ok, then your problem probably lies in the coax cable connectors, it would be very unusual for it to be the wire itself. Be especially suspicious of connectors at the mast step as they could see alot of salt. With any luck, you should have external access to the coax wire at the step or at the cabin ceiling under the step. Have the connections tested for continuity with an ohm testor and resoldered or replaced as necessary. Have someone check the crimps at all ends of the wire, making sure that there is good contact with the shield.. if there's no good ground, your transmission range will be very poor. These checks are very easy to do by yourself with a test meter, or someone with experience testing continuity. You may have to check the masthead connections as well, but this is still easier than stepping the mast to replace the wire, which is always a last resort. Hope this helps. Rick Moore
