Garmin 296

[Jerry Cochran]

My 296 will intermittently show "Low External Voltage" when alternator off or on. Both cases voltage is fine and I am wondering if this is a sign that 296's internal battery is failing. The unit is about 6 years old. Anyone else have this symptom? Wiring and grounds check fine.

Thanks,

[Steve Barnes]

Mine did the same thing. I took it to my electronics genius friend and we took the 296 apart and removed the hearing aid type battery. We then replaced it with similar larger battery with the same voltage. That was a couple of years ago, worked perfectly since. The battery is soldered in place. The whole process took about an hour (our first time doing it). I'm guessing if you send to Garmin, they will want $100 to $200. Steve "The Builders Coach"

[Jerry Cochran]

Since the main L/I battery was quite old anyway I replaced it ($25) and suddenly all the "Low External Voltage" messages went away.

Go figger...

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