Re: [Paddlewise] Taping the eTrex

Evan Dallas wrote:

Re:  John Blackburn's question:

> > Has anyone tried taping the edges of the battery compartment for some
> > greater degree of watertightness?

> That's what I've done.  I used duct tape, which seemed to work well except
> that it leaves a sticky residue behind--especially if left in place for a
> while.  I would expect electrical tape to also leave a residue.  Does
> anyone know of waterproof tape that DOESN'T leave a residue behind when
> removed??

Peter Rathmann has already noted that electrical tape leaves very little
residue.  (It also seals better than duct tape, FWIW.)

For the slight film that remains, lighter fluid, white gas, mineral spirits,
cooking oil, or kerosene on a Q-tip should allow you to remove the film.  I'd
use cooking oil, but the others evaporate faster.

I suspect taping is akin to spittin' in the wind, though, Evan.  It is the
sizable temperature changes the eTrex battery compartment experiences that
cause it to leak.  Even taped, there will be small gaps where the tape overlaps
an underlying layer.

I'd get a waterproof GPS bag and use it.  The eTrex button layout is easy to
one-hand, and the lanyard on the bag will allow you to anchor it to your yak's
deck and still see it up close.

--
Dave Kruger
Astoria, OR
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