Poor fm radio reception

[Terry Francis]

My AU III series Falcon Forte wagon has just developed a poor FM reception status. It takes about 15 minutes of the radio being on before I receive any reception. It tends to become clearer the longer I leave it switched on. The only thing I can come up with is that there might be a weak solder connection. I'm more mechanical minded than electrician minded. Any ideas ?
Thanks Terry F

[PG2]

Is the stereo factory or aftermarket?

Have you checked to make sure that it is plugged in properly at the back of the stereo?

[Terry Francis]

My radio is OEM from 2001.

[arm79]

Your thought of a dud solder joint would be a fair assumption.

Normally an electronic device that starts working after a little time being turned on is due to something internally heating up, expanding and restoring a poor or broken connection.

But it could also be a something like a failing capacitor as well.

Might want to check for basics like dirt and corrosion under the ground screw of the antenna, inside the guard. Make sure a rodent hasn't eaten through the antenna cable.

If I remember correctly later AU's had an automatic antenna. I take it the antenna is extending?

Might the universe's way of telling you its time to upgrade the head unit.

[aussiblue]

Open it up and check for cold solder joints (check google images for "cold solder joints" to see what you are looking for and reflow the solder on any you find. Also see https://electronics.stackexchange.co...m-vacuum-tubes