Almost Five Years Too Late

[DanK]

I recently posted an ATX for sale because I rarely used it and it sat in the closet most of the time, and when I did use it, it was only about an hour because of the weight.  Then I saw a Steve Herschbach’s post on this site, Garrett ATX Accessories, June 30, 2018, on modification accessories for the ATX, and it was just what I needed.  But, as the title of this topic states, “Almost five years too late”; I almost had to scrap the project. 

Steve said the only non ATX coils that would work on the ATX is the DD Infinium coils (Infinium was the precursor to the ATX) and he had a 5x10 DD on his set up.  The 5x10 DD coil was discontinued in 2016 and is no longer available, I didn't want the 3x7, so that left only the 10x14.  Detector companies list Infinium coils but most are out of stock and I purchased one of three coils I found ($152).  I purchased an aftermarket Garrett shaft of all places on Poshmark.  The shaft and coil were less than three pounds and the 3.5-pound control portion fit neatly in a 4x6x12 four compartment pouch by cutting an X on the inside of both end compartments.  The coil cable ran through the end compartment by the control arm and with a chest strap faces the coil to give you extra cable for mobility when kneeling or digging.  I swing the new coil/shaft setup with my left arm and operate the ATX control with my right hand. 

Bench testing showed improved depth with various nuggets and all controls functioned as they would with an ATX coil and very stable, as Steve had mentioned.  I use an "H" harness and had 1" webbing to run up both shoulder straps and around the neck with clips to support "D" rings on the pouch, very comfortable.  I bought the detector used so I wasn’t too concerned about the warranty or underwater use. 

I took it one step further and used an S2 tamperproof bit to remove the rear portion of the ATX to access the proprietary phone jack, scraped just enough off the speaker and jack wires to find the "common" wire (blue is common) and installed a 1/4" jack for my right-angle tip on my Nugget Buster Headphones.  With the headphones plugged in you can zip up the compartment and it stays clean.  The large center compartment has access to the batteries and coil connector but I leave it connected because it's too hard to disconnect and reconnect each time.  Everything works great and I plan to test it in the field.

I have read many posts by Steve and have learned a lot of tips and techniques that I use and really appreciate.  I know there are really good new detectors out there but I have never given the ATX a real try and that is what I intend to do and for less than $200 it's like having a new PI detector.  If anyone out there has a used 5x10 Infinium coil let me know.  My go to detector has been the Gold Monster and I scored 1-1/2 ounces of gold in California but I'm relearning now that we are living in central Arizona.  Thanks Steve.

[Steve Herschbach]

Very nice job on the setup, I'm glad my info was helpful. You can still find the 5x10 DD and other Infinium coils but it takes looking and probably buying used. These guys show a new one in stock but I'd sure call to confirm that. Probably are some new ones on back shelves at older dealers.

Northwest Detector Sales

[Lead Detector]

I just bought a new open box 5x10 infinium coil for my atx. Should be here soon. It's possible I may not need it, as I may be returning my atx for a refund. If it turns out that way, I'll be happy to sell you the coil for what I paid. Good write up. I like your setup. 

[DanK]

Greetings Ndplumr.  Yes, I would be very interested.  I tested the setup today and it works so much better but I need a couple minor adjustments.  Honestly, the ATX is military grade and a heavy machine.  I was in the process of selling it but held off.  Let me know.  By the way are you a plumber?  I had my C36 plumbing license in California before going into the medical field.  Have a nice day.

[Lead Detector]

On 12/19/2023 at 2:00 PM, DanK said:

Greetings Ndplumr.  Yes, I would be very interested.  I tested the setup today and it works so much better but I need a couple minor adjustments.  Honestly, the ATX is military grade and a heavy machine.  I was in the process of selling it but held off.  Let me know.  By the way are you a plumber?  I had my C36 plumbing license in California before going into the medical field.  Have a nice day.

I messaged you 

[DanK]

On 12/18/2023 at 10:54 AM, Steve Herschbach said:

Very nice job on the setup, I'm glad my info was helpful. You can still find the 5x10 DD and other Infinium coils but it takes looking and probably buying used. These guys show a new one in stock but I'd sure call to confirm that. Probably are some new ones on back shelves at older dealers.

Northwest Detector Sales

Greetings Steve.  Thanks.  I'm actually using the detector now with the 10x14" coil.  I just squeaked this project under the wire with the 10x14 coil.  There are no 5x10 DD Infinium coils available, new or used, and I've checked other countries and have switched my search for the 3x7 without success.  Used is the only way now so the search continues but having fun using the ATX now.