Troubleshooting radio?

thehemi

Seaman Apprentice
Joined
Jun 14, 2010
Messages
42
We bought a used boat and the radio does not work. No power.
It's plugged in, as far as I can tell. What are some good steps to
troubleshoot? Pull out the radio, apply a known 12V power source
and see if it powers up? Check the power leads coming from the
boat to see if they're actually hot? I want to try to confirm/deny
we have a power problem before buying a new radio.

Thanks!
 

Lyle29464

Lieutenant
Joined
Mar 10, 2009
Messages
1,261
Re: Troubleshooting radio?

If its a marine radio look behind it and look at the hot lead for a fuse. Then check at the source under the dash. Often it is just corrosion giving you the problem. Should have a place to test for 12 volts. If its a am-fm radio make a plate out of plastic or wood and cover the hole after you toss the unit.
 

Fireman431

Rear Admiral
Joined
Sep 17, 2007
Messages
4,292
Re: Troubleshooting radio?

Verify 12v+ going to the unit. Use a test light. If no power, check for a fuse. If it's good (or no fuse present), follow the power lead to it's source or run a new power lead.
Verify a solid ground (12v-). Use a test light. Follow it back to it's source. Clean any corrosion or run a new ground.

Here's the kicker...standard AM/FM automobile radios are not rated for the weather a boat sees or for the pounding they get in the water. If the power & ground are good, the radio may just be shot.
 
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