Butthead recently posted about the recent availability of PLB replacement batteries for ACR units. Until his post I thought I'd have to send mine in to have the battery replaced at what I thought was a pretty high cost (but better than buying a new unit). Anyway, the new battery arrived and I installed it, completed a self test and should be good until 2026 now.

The installation process was a breeze. Pull two screws. Pull out the old battery. Install the new battery by plugging in the included connector. Replace the screws. Run a self test. Done!

The link Butthead include was PLB Battery Replacement

Thank you Butthead!

I try to keep current. And the DIY replacement is something I felt needed sharing. Mine is good for a year or so yet but I will do the same. Thanks for the update!

butthead

Thanks to both of you. I missed that and need to do it.

Butthead, is da bomb!

Thanks Butthead and HappyHuskies for pointing this out. Mine is due in another year or so. So glad we can do this ourselves now. Watched the video, and its not much more than what I go through to replace the battery on my Suunto watch. I am a bit surprised they don't automatically send a new rubber gasket, but checking is not too hard. Just look for the fine cracks.

What was the cost of the kit?

My cost was $39.00 including shipping. I did not replace my gasket, as the one I had looked ok to me. I gotthe new battery 4 days after placing my order. It was shipped first class with tracking information.

I was wondering about water seals. Given that it is a PLB, I would be tempted to hold it underwater for a while to make sure it is still watertight. Either that or carry it in a ziplock bag.

andym: "I was wondering about water seals. Given that it is a PLB, I would be tempted to hold it underwater for a while to make sure it is still watertight. Either that or carry it in a ziplock bag. "

I’m guessing this is the sensitive part of the operation that led them to mandate “certified only” battery replacements for so long, but it can be managed. If in doubt, order a new gasket.

For what it’s worth, my aging Suunto Observer watch needs a new cr2032 battery about every 18 months or so and has the same sort of operation. As long as the gasket is rubbery and not cracked, it’s ok. I just carefully clean it and the surfaces of the watch were it goes (they get gunky), apply a little silicon gel, and seal it up. My watch has gone swimming, paddling, showering, and been through 30 second hand washes many times a day - and the seal has held for years. I suspect the process for waterproofing the PLB is identical and will work just as well.

HappyHuskies: "My cost was $39.00 including shipping. I did not replace my gasket, as the one I had looked ok to me. I gotthe new battery 4 days after placing my order. It was shipped first class with tracking information."

Great to know. That knocks the average annual cost of operation down to a measly $8, vastly cheaper than any sat communicated plan.

I agree the gasket shouldn't be hard. I'm just expecting someone to blow it and not get a rescue. Judging by reviews on Amazon, people keep ruining waterproof cameras by not cleaning the seal on the door where the battery and card go. Of course, those get opened and closed more often. I think it is a good idea to encourage people to test the seal before running a test of the electronics.

I just received and replaced the battery pack on my PLB-375 per Butthead's original posting and it was an absolute breeze. In and out in under five minutes. My gasket looked like new so I'm not concerned with the water seal at all.

I just did the same replacement, but for some reason my unit is failing the GPS self test now. Basic self test is a pass, but I get a long red light at the end of the GPS test instead of the long green light I should be getting.

Wondering if maybe it's just having a hard time acquiring satellites, but I tested in my yard with a clear view of the sky so it seems like it should have been fine. Might try again elsewhere and report back.

Anyone else have this happen? I never had a failed GPS test before now.