GL: Electronics Repair on the Hudson

[M S]

1) Solar Panels are now working. It was the charge controller. On the positive
side we found a much less expensive version at west marine. The exact
replacement was over $250. We got the new one on sale for $29 (normally $59).
I figured it was worth a try for $29.
 
2) Depth sounder: The problem was noticed coming up the NJ ICW. Depths should
have been running in the 4-15 foot range and they were always at least 40 ft
often 70-80 ft. It did not appear to be a multiple of the depth. We didn't
find anyone in NY city and the depths appeared pretty safe so we moved a ways
up the hudson. We always have the mechanical backup depthsounders (our rudders
kick up at around 3ft and then we are 18"). ; ) We did look in the hudson
river free mag, but it was pretty thin pickings for an electronics person.
 
Snip:
The depth readings near the shore in the Peekskill area stay remarkably
constant at about 8 to 15 feet for long stretches. Try crossing the river to
Haverstraw or heading north to Bear Mountain. You will pass over the big ship
channel and the depth reading should change abruptly to between 30 and 200
feet. If it does not, than you really have depth finder trouble. Don't rely on
the charts to give you an accurate depth indication. They have not been
updated for 20 years or more. If nothing works and you are sure that the
connections are sound, try cleaning the surface of the transducer.
 
PS: Until someone further south shows up, we claim the title "last looper".
Just south of  Peekskill and likely hear for another week or two.
 
Mike & Tammy
Valhalla II