LMS 480 GPS not responding

[Trouthead]

I've got a 4-5 year old Lowrance LMS 480 with GPS. It's been working fine for years but the last 2 times out it runs for a while and then I get "GPS not responding". Everything works except the GPS and it dosen't find itself the rest of the trip. I've got a on/off switch for the GPS and it's on. Even flipped it a couple of times hoping for reset. I'm running an 18 ft. Aluminum boat, single battery. Only electrical devises on board are: Lowrance, marine radio. 2 bilge pumps and lights. Any suggestions before I contact Lowrance?

[Robbo]

What's the model # on the GPS antennae? Is it a 3000?

[Trouthead]

It came stock with a 2000. It's the last year they made the 480. Would it be compatible with the 3000?

[Nelly]

I'm thinking the same thing as Robbo,...I suspect you have a smoked GPS antennae.
Check Outdoor Emporium or West Marine for a replacement!

[Robbo]

I would first check your plug ends for corrosion. It's possible you could have some corrosion in your GPS plugs, which is why it's losing signal. If that's not it the antennae is probably going out and needs to be replaced with an LGC4000. Let us know how it goes TH

[Trouthead]

Ok, I ran all the tests and my unit if fried for sure. I'm going to replace it with a LGC 4000 but I need a new kicker motor first since somebody took mine last Wednesday.

[Trouthead]

New LGC 4000 is installed and is working fine. I did have to use an adapter to connect the 1st. generation (blue) connection to the new black connector. $199.00 for the antenna on-line from Cabella's.

[Nelly]

Glad to hear it's working TH!
To avoid other electronics, I would strongly urge you to consider adding a battery to your boat.
Installing a two-battery bank system keeps voltage up which is easier on your electronics and is an important safety backup should you have a battery fail...Believe me... it happens!

Remember on your boat there are two things there are no substitute for: Fuel and electricity!