3.4. Internal inspection
Internal inspection is important both for diagnosing faults and for detecting possible faults
early. Internal inspection is required under the following conditions:
• A fault has been observed and needs to be diagnosed
• If there is any indication of water inside the EPIRB
• Any salt deposit or corrosion is visible inside
• Signs of any cracking of the plastic parts
• Any time the EPIRB is opened for other reasons
Sections 3.5 and 3.6 detail how to disassemble the EPIRB and then re-assemble it.
These sections should be followed, but using the notes below as guidance on what to
look for during the disassembly process.
Prior to opening EPIRB
• Inspect lens and body for signs of levering with screwdrivers
• Inspect antenna for sharp bends, which indicate the EPIRB has been dropped.
With dome removed
• If there is a pungent smell, then suspect that one of the Lithium battery packs have
leaked. See section 1.4 for advice. Wear rubber gloves. Damaged lithium batteries
may be unstable and pose a serious safety hazard. Leakage usually damages
circuit boards, so it is often necessary to scrap the EPIRB without further
investigation.
• If the EPIRB has an electrical fault, make measurements on the battery.
• Check Sea switch contacts internally.
• Check circuit board for white salt deposits, dull grey corrosion or wetness.
If any corrosion is evident the PCB should be replaced.
• Check plastic parts, especially screw positions, for signs of cracking.
• Check condition of EMC coating inside body. Green patches mean water ingress.
With battery removed
• Check condition of weight. Green deposits mean water was present
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