Mid 2000's Ranger Touchpads

[M-D]

I am looking to buy a mid to late 2000's Ranger. Never had a Ranger before. What's the scoop on the touchpads going back to this time frame of a boat. Assuming they go bad just like everything else, can replacements be found? If no replacements, what is everyone doing for a work around?
Or should I just avoid any boats with touch pads?

[jc2bg]

The manufacturer/supplier for those older touch pads has gone away. Ranger is seeking a new supplier, and we hear that within a few months the pads might be available again. Until then, occasionally one pops up on eBay. Otherwise, a bypass key switch is readily available [should carry one anyway], and the other dash controls can be wired around the pad on a temporary basis. Knowing the situation, with no ironclad guarantee that touch pads will always be available, you have to make the choice that seems best for you.

[M-D]

Thanks for the reply jc2bg!! Good to know that Ranger is actively seeking a fix for this and based on what I do know about Ranger, I would guess that replacements will be available. Makes me feel better about buying one with a touch pad.
Do you have to get the bypass switch from Ranger?

[jc2bg]

From Ranger or a Ranger realer. They fit most engines.

[Whiteboat]

Check Jetta Marine, board sponser

[Zpilot]

I purchased a new pad and brain box for my 2006 Ranger about two months ago from Ranger. Not sure if later 2000's are hard to get but this year was readily available.

[jc2bg]

What I have heard were the hardest to find years are 2003-2005.

[Z21-I]

I keep an eye out for threads on this subject. My boat is an 07 and over time I have changed the bow touchpad and then the console touchpad and brain. Not looking forward to the day I have another issue and find out these are not available.

[jc2bg]

Would not be a bad idea to pick up a spare console touchpad when you can. If you never need it, great, and having a spare when/if you sell the boat will make it much more desirable [to anyone who knows much about these boats].

[bass.man65]

Would not be a bad idea to pick up a spare console touchpad when you can. If you never need it, great, and having a spare when/if you sell the boat will make it much more desirable [to anyone who knows much about these boats].

I have a 04 521VX never had a problem with either pad. But thinking I may one day. I bought a new one for console and the front back around 2010. I carry them in the boat and luckily I have never needed them yet.

[M-D]

Resurrecting this thread to advise that Ranger now has the touch pads in stock. ~$350.00 is what I was told.

[jc2bg]

Thanks for the info, M-D.

[Generator]

They have them now. Friend of mine just got one for a 05 519. It was right at four hundred bucks