[Z280Bob]

Next newbie question. The Cockpit Radio/CD player on my 1999 Z280 does not work and the dealer won't replace it for free. The unit is a Kenwood while the 2nd unit in the cabin works fine and is a Sony. I am assuming the one in the cabin is original while the one in the Cockpit was replaced by a previous owner and does not appear to be a marine model which could be the reason it's kaput. My question to you folks is twofold. First would Mariah have used two different brands from the factory? Second, since I have to replace the cockpit unit at my own expense what brand/unit would you recommend that could be installed with no wiring changes?

[wplaine]

Depends on the sound you want in the cockpit. Sony has always been my favorite. Make sure it is not a power supply problem. Best to pull the old unit and check supply power and output wires. Might not need a new unit. I just bought a sony with a fuse in the rear of the unit, could be gone on yours..... Good luck and keep the chin up

[WetWilly]

Hi Z280Bob, wplaine is absolutely right, before going out and spending more cash, check the basics first, make sure there's power to the existing radio and the ground good.

If you need to replace it, regardless of brand, get a one that is designed for marine use and if it's located where water can get to easily, install a cover over the face plate.

WetWilly

[Z280Bob]

The Marina already checked and it was DOA. So I went ahead and purchased a Kenwood KMR-330 unit at Best Buy for $129 figuring it could potentially be installed using the same connections with no rewiring as the old Kenwood unit. I unscrewed the access panel in the head, used the tools provided with the new radio to pull the old unit out, and then connected the wiring harness and antenna connection and Voila!! I again had a working radio/CD player in less than 15 minutes of install. I was going to purchase a waterproof cover to go over it but it would have cost $59 compared to the 4 year warranty from Best Buy that would replace it for free regardless for $19.