Sonar/GPS question

[yellowtail55]

Our second garmin fishfinder went to crap over the weekend, so it's time to switch brands. I'm not disappointed w/ the fishfinder itself, but the connection
wasn't water-resistant enough. It only lasted about 12 trips, or around 6 months. Around 1/3 of them were freshwater trips too. I'm also considering buying a GPS. Is a GPS worth the money in regards to the impact it makes on your fishing? I may want to get a GPS/sonar combo. Also, which brand/model of sonar is the most durable? Thanks in advance for any help.

[Brad Wells]

I have filled my connections with dielectric grease and never disconnect it. Its been on a year and no problems.

[sleepyhead]

I second that suggestion. dielectric grease is the way to go.

[dgax65]

I've been using Humminbird fish finders for a couple of years. Their connectors have no O-rings, but I've never had any corrosion. Di-electric grease is the way to go.

[yellowtail55]

can you buy di-electric grease at any hardware store?

[SAR]

Try an auto parts store (I've bought it in Autozone) , it's used in spark plug boots and they sell it in individual sized foil envelopes so you don't have to buy a 100 year supply.

[Johnny T.]

West Marine carries it. They sell in a tube, and a spray I believe. Most use the small tube...

Johnny

[Handymansd]

Most boating stores will carry it, but you can always just stop by OEX Point Loma and they will have what you need. You will find many times to use dielectric grease if you have electronics on board!:wink:

[Johnny T.]

Will check in OEX first from now on...;)

[mg2969]

What does everybody think about the 1/2 test tube size and shape of the electric connectors for sprinkler systems ?
Each one has a good table spoon worth of grease and it pretty self contained.
Would this be a good idea or just cheesy ?

This one at home depot has 4 tubes of grease for $3.87.
I guess you splice your wires together and jam it into the grease tube
http://www.homedepot.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/ProductDisplay?storeId=10051&langId=-1&catalogId=10053&productId=100052608&N=10000003+90401&marketID=401&locStoreNum=8125

[JPSURF]

I am using a Humminbird 717 and a Garmin GPSMAP 76CSX with it.