Radio with a mind of its own

[big shooter]

The other day I didn't have my boat covered and it rained. Not a big deal. But then for a few weeks after that the radio developed a mind of its own. While cruising it would get quiet, then quickly go full volume. Then switch from bluetooth to FM.

I stopped using it. About 3 weeks later I tried it and it worked fine for the whole 2 hour trip. I had planned to put in a warranty claim this winter, but now I'm not sure.

Anybody have any ideas?

 

[sunedog]

Perhaps the moisture inside was causing the wacky symptoms. Then it dried out and works normally. I wouldn't do anything to it unless it starts acting up again. Maybe you got lucky. Only time will tell.

 

[Vikingstaff]

Ditto above thoughts.

 

[GarySWI]

What radio are you talking about? If it's a marine radio water shouldn't be getting inside.

I would suspect water getting into some of the wiring, maybe in the helm? Check those connections and see if the connectors are fully seated to compress the water seals/ o-rings. Maybe a very small amount of dielectric grease on the mating surfaces.

 

[big shooter]

What radio are you talking about? If it's a marine radio water shouldn't be getting inside.

I would suspect water getting into some of the wiring, maybe in the helm? Check those connections and see if the connectors are fully seated to compress the water seals/ o-rings. Maybe a very small amount of dielectric grease on the mating surfaces.

Its the stock Kicker marine radio. This past winter the marina re wrapped my dash board. I am wondering if the radio is supposed to be sealed to the dash with silicone or something? Water getting behind the radio makes more sense

 

[Potomacbassin’]

Depends on the model - the newer ones might have a waterproof IP rating (IP67, 68 etc) where a drenching rain shouldnt be getting into the circuitry. But if it's an older model or it was damaged somehow then certainly moisture can be wreaking havoc. I would check your power connections as well in the back and make sure those aren't moist or corroded somehow to rule out voltage fluctuations.

Chasing electrical gremlins is the worst!