6500 antenna tuning SWR go nuts after recent updates.

Val DM1TX · October 2019

Hello,

It seems that since the 2.6.0 update the antenna tuning is going places (crazy).
I am using an MFJ 993B external tuner and it seems that since update 2.6.0 the Flex 6500 (which is in Byp mode) very often believe there is no Bypass and SWR is just shooting up over 10. MFJ tuner cannot handle it.
I am switching back and forth the Byp/internal tuner of Flex and then for a while everything is OK. Then again.
Factory resetted tuner, tested also with a second rig of 100W and working fine.
Changed the whole Coax, redone the connectors, tested antenna etc. Going nuts here.
It all narrowed down to Flex. Something had changed.
I just wonder if anyone had a similar issue and what would be the next step.
I have updated to v 2.6.1 believing that would correct the issue but no luck.
Going back to v2.4.9 is a no go for the same reason that I would not downgrade to Windows XP just because W 10 sucks :-)
Little help here please.
Rig was sent a few months back to Flex Service for Fan Kit renewal and test super fine on all parameters. So I would exclude a hardware issue.
MFJ tuner is also new. Coax is M&P Ultraflex.

Thanks for the great support of this Community

73
Val
DM1TX

Bill -VA3WTB · October 2019

I wonder, did you factory rest you 6500? You should to see if that helps any strange things from happening.

John - AI4FR · October 2019

Val DM1TX · October 2019

So I took out the MFJ. Reset Flex to factory settings. First sign is that Flex still behave the same. It is like still in Bypass even Software say no. Will further test tomorrow. Gotta hit the bunk as it is late here :-) Thanks 73 DM1TX

John - AI4FR · October 2019

Terry T · October 2019

I just checked my 6500 it's doing the same thing. Very strange some times will tune other times says success and is no where close. Never did this before, I am not sure when it happened because I don't use the tuner in radio.
terry