I bought a 6 year old Vexilar FL-8 a couple weeks ago. I wasn’t sure if I was using it wrong or if there was something wrong with the unit. After reading the FAQ on their website and preforming the tests that they recommended, I thought I might have a bad transducer. I was picking up interferance most of the time.
I was going to send it in to Vexilar for a once over, but since they were in Bloomington, I figured I’d just drive it over.
This service fella by the name of Pat (Pat needs time off to go fishing more) came out and said he would take a look at it and barring any major problems I should be able to take it along home with me. 
I didn’t expect that, but it did put a smile on my face.
He checked the transducer and said it’s not good, but it ain’t bad either…he then replaced it. Pat took the unit apart to check the brushes and said they weren’t even half gone, but he notice the gray silicon holding the lens on. Apperantly this gray colored silicone has a negative effect on the life of the motor. Not only did he replace the silicone, but he changed out the motor. He even replace the packing that holds the battery in securely!
I was telling him that if he put anymore parts into it, I’d be better off buying a new flasher….he kinda laughed.
He put it all together, tested it and started to fill out the bill.
I know the transducer is $59. and who knows what the motor and other misc. parts run. He handed me the bill….at the bottom it read N/C!
I doubt that they do this for everyone that walks in the door and I sure didn’t expect this to happen to a guy with a second hand, 6 year old FL-8 .
To me a good product is important, good service is more important!
