Bounty Hunter/Time Ranger Problem

[luryp]

I have a BH/Time Ranger that was my first detector. I haven't used it for some time and even then, only used up a couple or so sets of batteries in it. I got it out the other day and put new batteries in it. When I'd turn it on, the display would come on as usual, then immediately shut off. I tried a different set of batteries, same thing. After fiddling with it a while, I noticed that if I took one of the batteries out, turned it on, then connected the other battery, it worked fine.....until I turned it off, then the same story again. Of course, the 5 year warranty has just run out. I'd like to sell it, or give it to a family member. But I don't want to do this unless it is working properly. Any suggestions? Thanks, lcp

[porkluvr]

Not saying that all bounty hunters are like one I had, but I had a Quick Draw II that I used once at the beach, then when I tried to use it about a year later all it did was sputter at me.

After I opened it up I found some of the poorest solder imaginable. I blame the solder, but even after I did what amounted to a major touch-up, it was still a no-go. I scrapped the board and still have the stem and housing and coil that will eventually morph into another detector. I bought the thing inexpensively, with the intention of scrapping its interior - so I did not feel too put out. (But the solder was amazing.)

So I suggest that if it still doesn't work after you make sure the battery connectors are mechanically sound and the batteries are fresh (and alkaline), you could try to find some defective solder joints and touch them up. You have nothing to lose by cracking the case - just try not to shock the ESD sensitive components on the PCB. Let us know how it looks.

[luryp]

BH/TR

Thanks a heap, porkluvr. I'll give it a shot. As you say, nothing to lose. I'm not a fan of this brand either, but it was my first one and did the job of helping to hook me into the MD program. May all your finds be gold and shallow. lcp