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reconditioning an old compass

Posted: Oct 30th, '20, 19:17
by ktm_2000
Hi All,

I would like to plan out the dash for my doghouse and went looking at the compass that I had and it is showing its age, I think it came with the boat in 1964 so it has been around for a while, I've never had a cover for it so it has taken a lot of abuse. The dome is cloudy, the fluid has junk in it and the dial is faded. It does seem to be still accurate and a new 4" diameter compass is kind of pricey. Is it worth spending some time on the dome treating it light a cloudy car headlight and swapping out the fluid to get rid of the crud inside or is it just time add another line item to the budget?
https://photos.app.goo.gl/KVF3Ud1igwZbqbK39

thoughts?

Re: reconditioning an old compass

Posted: Oct 30th, '20, 20:49
by Tony Meola
Had that same compass on my boat. I finally replaced it with a Ritchie. Little bigger markings, blue card and easier to read. I bought mine about 10 years ago, and I don't remember what I paid but you are right it was not cheap. But it is easier to read.

I would think a rebuild would have to be North of $150, but it has been a while since I have had one done. Once you cross $200 it is not worth it.

Take a look at this link. Looks like repair starts at $178, for this outfit.

https://www.vikingcompass.com/picture056.html

Re: reconditioning an old compass

Posted: Nov 1st, '20, 16:03
by Dug
Check with Danforth on renew cost.