Frequently Asked Questions

Will your magnetic locators find old coins, brass, gold and such?
No, our magnetic locators will only locate ferromagnetic metals (i.e. iron, steel). Coins, gold and brass do not contain ferromagnetic materials.

Will your instruments locate things underwater (i.e. boat propellers) and if so how deep will it locate?
Depth and locating ability depends on what type of material the object is made of and the size of the object you are looking for underwater. Our GA-52Cx and MAC-51Bx can only be used up to a depth of 34 inches. Our GA-72Cd can only be used up to a depth of 21 inches.

Does your Pipe and Cable Locator work on Plastic Pipes?
Yes but you must have a tracer wire, or a MT-2 (see Parts & Accessories for MAC-51Bx), or magnetic markers over the pipe.

What is the difference between the GA-52Cx, GA-72Cd and the MAC-51Bx?
The GA-52Cx is an easy to use, reliable, magnetic locator. The GA-72Cd is basically the same as the GA-52Cx but has a LCD meter display showing signal strength of the magnetic object you are locating. The MAC-51Bx is a combination unit that has magnetic locating abilities like the GA-52Cx and also features a transmitter which allows you to induce a signal directly onto an object (i.e. pipe, tracer wire) and trace it directly. The transmitter only works with the MAC-51Bx.

Up to what depths does your locators find objects?
It all depends on the size and material of the object, but some examples are:
Survey markers up to 9 feet
1-1/4" PK Nail Up to 12 inches
4" Cast-Iron Pipe Up to 10 feet
Well Casting Up to 18 feet
Manhole Cover Up to 10 feet

Where is Schonstedt located?
Schonstedt relocated from Reston, VA to Kearneysville, WV in October 1998. Our address is 100 Edmond Road, Kearneysville, WV 25430.

Why doesn't Schonstedt continue to service older locator models such as the GA-22, GA-32, GA-52 and GA-72Cv?
We will do our best to attempt to repair these instruments however, in most cases parts for these older models are no longer available. For this reason Schonstedt will still offer a trade-in option to you.

What is the repair warranty on Schonstedt locators?
Repair warranties are for six months, the best in the industry.

How long does it take to have my locator repaired?
It takes 48 hours from receipt of customer's approval to Schonstedt for models GA-52Cx, GA-72Cd, GA-52B and GA-52C. It takes 72 hours from receipt of customer's approval for model MAC-51B and MAC-51Bx. All other models please call Schonstedt for repair times.

How much does it cost to have my locator repaired at Schonstedt?
Our standard minimum repair charge for Model GA-52Cx and GA-72Cd is $290.00 and model MAC-51Bx is $340.00, (the MAC's are slightly more because it is a two-part instrument). These costs include a new base and tube, can/cover assembly, tuning, aligning and calibration to its original manufactured specifications. These locators are returned to the customer, looking and functioning "like brand new".

Is the trade in program still available?
Yes, you may contact Schonstedt or any Authorized Schonstedt Dealer and we will be glad to assist you.

How do I operate my XTPC charger?
Click here to view full size image of the XTPC charger instructions.

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If you don't find the answers to your questions above
please use our Ask the Tech form to send us an email describing your problem or question.