Sovereign GT control box has slight wobble where it connects under arm rest? need help

[JASONSPAZ1]

Hello everyone. I have been using the Sovereign GT for years and noticed something today on my GT that I have not noticed before. Where the GT control box connects to the mounting clip under the arm rest, it appears to have a slight wobble. The control box stays on unless I purposely or accidentally press in the release tab on the control box mounting clip. Is the slight wobble where the GT connects to the mounting clip common on everyone's GT, or is it just mine? Can I get a replacement mounting clip or is there some kind of after market clip solution that can make the Sovereign GT control box rock solid when attached to the mounting clip under the arm rest?

Thanks so much in advance
Jason

 

[meggie]

Hi Jason.

unfortunately i find that this is the weakest link on the GT.

The good news is that this item can easily be replaced in a few minutes.

It's called a control box bracket, item # 8004-0012.I,m sure most Minelab dealers will have them in stock,cost about $10.00.

Brian ...

 

[JASONSPAZ1]

So it is safe to assume that all GT users have the "slight wobble" where the control box connects to the bracket?

 

[Rick(ND)]

This is something I have seen on all models of the Sovereigns as with the removeable control boxes there can never be a tight fit like those that dont have the removeable control boxes

 

[Critterhunter]

Mine doesn't wobble here. First thing I'd do is unsnap the control box and clean any dirt out of the slits on top of the box that the clip snugs into. Mine had that issue and it was trapped dirt. More than likely if that doesn't solve it then the clip is worn at the tip where it clips into the control box. Inspect the clip and see if it shows signs of wear. If it does then a new clip might solve your problem. Another option would be to coat the parts of the clip that contact the control box with a thin layer of epoxy. That will in essence build up the surface area of the clip so it's more snug.

 

[Ron from Michigan]

I had an Elite with just the plastic connector screwed onto the rod asm and did get an annoying wobble.The GT with the stock metal rail bracket asm will give a snug fit,but the weight is enormous compared to a V clip.I always felt Minelab could have made a better mounting system for the GT.The stress created with prolonged use could cause wear and give a wobble.The screws that hold the cases together screw into a plastic anchor which can snap off and give a wobble effect also.

 

[JASONSPAZ1]

First off, The Minelab person I spoke with was very friendly and I think he was just following orders.
Anyway, after being told by Kellyco that the Sovereign GT control box mounting bracket is out of stock on their end and Minelab as well does not have any. I called Minelab directly to see whay I can find out. What I was told is that Minelab guaranttes that if I send my Sovereign GT out for service it will be fixed. I was told I will have my GT back in 10 days.It might as well be ten years in these final months before the ground freezes to be without my Soereign GT. I was also told in no way will Minelab sell the part.From what it seems this control box mounting bracket was available in the past
Most other manufactures will send a replacement part if something like the control box mounting bracket needs replacement. Is Minelab afraid someone is going to build a Frankenstein machine out of various parts? I think this is a clue / hint for Anderson Detector shafts, or SunRay to build a better control box mounting bracket that can be purchased as an accessory.

I know I am obsessing but I take very good care of my Sovereign GT and I am proud of the Sovereigns "built like a tank" reputation. However I can not stand having a "wobbly" control box even though it is on secure.

What to do?

 

[plugger]

You may have to drill out the rivets and put new ones in, maybe a little fatter rivet perhaps. Just make sure you use the small headed rivets so they seat into the recess on the bracket. Or, you might be able to squeeze some glue/epoxy in between the 2 pieces and tighten it up that way. I would not send my Gt in just because of a wobbly bracket!

Plugger

 

[JHM]

It's a pain in the a$$ dealing with the ML repair department. Not selling a 10 dollar part that will get you going is a bunch of crap. I need a new mount and a v-clip as well but haven't been able to find someone who will sell one. I guess they're afraid you will mount the box on a light weight shaft and make the original look bad. I was wondering why there have been so many used explorers for sale in the classifieds lately. My guess is people are starting to get enough BS.

 

[meggie]

Hi,

try this company in Australia,they usually carry the parts you require.
Look under stems.

It's a long shot but you never know.

http://www.minersden.com.au/default.asp?pageid=PRODUCTS&template=PRODUCTCAT&catid=450&site=15

 

[jbow]

it is still built like a tank. One of the clips broke off my rechargable battery pack but the other one holds it in place just fine. If it works, and doesn't bother me... I don't bother it. Now, if it didn't work and I got some BS about 45 days i'd be screaming.

J

 

[JASONSPAZ1]

thanks for all your input. a thin strip of electrical tape on each end of the bracket made the control box nice and snug.

Thanks again
Jason

 

[foiled again tab hunter]

n/t

 

[synthnut]

Hey Jason,
My buddies tell me that my GT was fine, but the operator had a slight wobble to him !!..... ....Jim