FL18

[bturck]

Perhaps Vex Tech will pick this up or perhaps another one of you knowlgable fisher peoples!! I am seriously considering buying an FL18, and was wondering if Vexilar has had a recall of any of the original units at the retail outlet. I really don't want to buy one and then have to send it in for the version 2 update. Any info appreciated.

[Skeets]

I work in Retail Fishing Sales.
Vexilar has not made a recall on the FL-18's, the upgrade is for the consumer to have done on their own. I have heard they will fix it while you wait or you can send it to them for repair.
I also own a new Fl-18, I have not had mine updated yet. I will problbly take mine in after ice out.
I really haven't had much problems with mine at all, only a few times the bottom jumped up a foot on the AZ mode. I don't think it is a big deal at all.
I used it on LOW and Red Lake in February for three straight days with no problems at all. The AZ mode really worked great on LOW where the walleye and sauger hold tight to the bottom. I'm glad I upgraded.
Fluke or no fluke, Vexilar will stand behind their product.

Skeets

[red bricks]

The fl-18 problem is a soft bottom issue. On lakes with rock and sand bottom they work flawlessly. There is some kind of double feedback thing going on with a soft bottom lake. First layer reading and second layer reading. I had my fl-18 updated at the VEX shop in Bloomington and it took less than 3 minutes. My vex just needed a software update and the others need a chip. Call vex and they will let you know the turnaround. They really stand behind their stuff. Check around there are places that are blowing out their winter stock. Also try hsolist. It is a great time to buy one. i bought mine there (fl-18 propak for 349$ in jan) But if you have to pay full retail I would wait until next year. Good luck!!

[Guest]

Thanks for the input guys.
Skeets: Just got back from LOW and no doubt that split screen would be great. The FL8 works good, but does not do what I've heard the 18 will in regards to the bottom huggers. I caught a lot of fish banging the jig on the bottom and then reeling up a couple of feet and they would chase it hard. I've got three people interested in my 8 so the cost is not going to be significant.

[nunzio]

Bill,
I was a Zercom owner that got fed up with the interference problem with the Vexilars.
I traded up, I feel. I got the version 2.0 and have experienced no problems and am very satisfied. The duel cone is worth the extra $. Real nice machine. -nunzio