INSTRUCTION MANUAL
SIERRA
MADRE
Manufactured by White's Electronics Inc. Sweet Home, OR U.S.A.
ATTENTION: To use the SIERRA MADRE in normal conditions; set the MODE to BAT.
\, check meter. Set MODE to high, squeeze and release TRIGGER on handle. Set TUNER
for slight hum. Hold loop waist level, press AUTO GEB to AIR, wait for "beep". Lower
loop to ground, press AUTO GEB to GND AUTO TRAG, wait for "beep". Sweep loop
over ground, "beep" and positive meter movement (to the right) indicate a metal.White's Electronics Inc.
A Message from...
Kenneth R. White, C. E. O.
Congratulations, and thank you for choosing the SIERRA MADRE.
‘The following instructions are intended to familiarize you with this fine
metal detector, and give you a good understanding of the basics.
Obviously, there is no substitute for field experience. Practice using
your detector in the field, and study this manual carefully. Before long
you may be able to teach the experts a thing or two!
‘Your new SIERRA MADRE has been hand built and carefully tested at
our factory in Sweet Home, Oregon. Properly cared for, it will last for
years.
People use our metal detectors to find valuables every day. Regardless
of a metal detectors performance, itis the operator who makes the
critical decisions that result in great recoveries. A metal detector is
simply a tool which greatly increases the capabilities of the user to find
such valuables. Knowing your detector, and researching good places to
use it , are key elements to successful metal detecting.
We know in a very short time you will be using the SIERRA MADRE to
help you find items of value. We are proud to continue White's
tradition of high performance and reliability with the Sierra Madre.TABLE OF CONTENTS
Parts Identification & Assembly..
Batteries.
Tuning & General Use....
Explanation Of Each Control;
MODE.
TUNER...
AUTO GEB..
TRIGGER
Meter.
Fifteen Inch Loop...
Headphones.
14-15
Trouble Shooting...
Caring For Your Instrument. 16
Owner Information. 17
Warranty Information... 18
Warranty Statement. Inside Back Cover
Manufacturer Address / Telephone number... -Back Cover
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7
ZAParts Identification & Assembly, Continued
1. Remove all parts from shipping carton. Check the assembly page to make sure
all parts are present.
2, Place loop washers on clevis/lower rod, one on each side, and slide clevis onto
loop ears. Use fiber bolt and thumbnut to secure.
3. Insert clevis/lower rod into curved "S" rod so that stainless steel spring clip
buttons line up and lock into one of the adjustment holes in the curved "S" rod.
Turn camlock to secure. (The second or third adjustment holes are suitable for
average size adults. Individuals 6' or taller should consider the fully extended
position. Individuals well over 6' tall should purchase the optional Tall Man Rod
for a more comfortable fit.)
4, Remove the cable twist from the loop cable and wind the cable around the
clevis rod with first revolution over the top of the rod. Leave a small section of
slack in the cable near the loop to allow for loop tilting. Wind cable all the way to
the top of the curved "S" rod. Use the black cable retainers, one near the loop,
and one near the curve in the "S" rod, to hold the cable in place.
5, Insert curved "S" rod so that stainless steel spring clip buttons line up, and lock
into the rod on top of the control box. Turn camlock to secure. Plug loop
connector into control box, turn lock ring clockwise to secure.
6. Grip the instrument by the handle, with your arm in the armcup, and sweep the
loop over the floor. If the instrument fit feels uncomfortable, adjust the armcup
by removing and repositioning the bolt/thumbnut and installing in one of the
optional positions. If necessary, readjust clevis/lower rod position.
7. Remove protective paper from the black armcup foam pad, carefully align it in
the armcup (elbow support), and press firmly into place.
8. Adjust the armeup strap so that it is loose enough to slide your arm in and out
without loosening each time you want to set the detector down.
9. Install the battery pack (described in the next section) decal facing up, stee!
contacts facing toward the loop.
NOTE: Your detector may not work as expected indoors due to the high degree
of metals used in modern construction. It is best to tune and practice out-of-doors
to ensure stable, predictable results.
@)Batteries
Standard Batteries:
‘The standard battery holder supplied with your instrument holds four "C" size
batteries, Alkalines are recommended as they supply more consistent power for
longer time periods. Rechargeable "C" size batteries may also be used in this
holder, although they will need to be removed from the holder for recharging.
Using The Standard Battery Holder:
1, Remove the battery holder lid by applying gentle pressure down on the four
locking tab openings, two on each side, so that they unlock. Remove lid.
2. Note the position of each cell. The flat side of each battery cell fits against
cone of the four springs. ‘There are two springs on the lid, and two in the case.
The batteries fit alternating +, -, +, -.
3. Remove any weak cells and replace them with new "C" cells.
Caution: If the cells are put in backwards the detector may blow a fuse. Fuses
can only be replaced by authorized service centers.
4. Line up the locking tabs on the lid with the locking tab openings on the
battery holder. Snap the lid and holder together.
5. Insert the battery holder into the detector so that the decal is facing up, and
the steel contacts are facing toward the insides of the detector.
—_
Rechargeable Batteries:
Although the SIERRA MADRE doesn't normally come with a rechargeable
battery system, high quality systems are available for this model. White's
rechargeable battery #802-5185 and charger #509-0020-1 are recommended.
Please contact your dealer or telephone toll free, 1-800-547-6911, for more
information.
(4)Tuning & General Use
Preset: \7
Placing the TUNER to W/ (Preset), AUTO GEB (automatic ground exclusion
balance) to GND AUTO TRAC (ground automatic tracking), and the MODE to
the HIGH, good results will be achieved in average conditions. However, it may
be necessary to fine tune the detector for use in other than average ground, or
simply to maximize performance for a specific type of searching. These preset
positions are intended to offer generally acceptable settings. Most anxious
detectorists prefer to venture out and use their new detector for the first time
before they have carefully read this manual. The \P/ allows such use with
surprising success. After use, the SIERRA MADRE will eventually fine tune its,
‘own ground rejection through tracking, thus improve its performance
automatically. It has also been found that becoming proficient using the detector
at the \P/settings eases the learning curve, making further study a smoother and
more enjoyable experience.
Keep the loop sweeping from side to side very close to the ground, always mov-
ing. ‘Those using a detector for the first time often sweep the loop too slowly; a
brisk sweep of about two seconds for each pass is desirable.
Overlap each pass S Right
by at least 50%.
—_—
i= Keep loop flat to
the ground. ok
Metals produce a solid abrupt "beep". The meter deflects positive (to the right) in
unison with the sound "beep". Sweep the loop over the area several times. Once
the decision has been made to dig, slowly "X” the loop over the area to pinpoint
its exact location. The strongest sound and furthest meter movement to the right
indicate target center.
Tatget
6Fine Tuning:
Fine tuning the SIERRA MADRE results in an immediate improvement in
performance. The keys to fine tuning are the AUTO GEB switch and the MODE
control.
The AUTO GEB (automatic ground exclusion balance) switch sets the ground
rejection, When the ground is rejected the detector can see deeper targets, and is,
less susceptible to ground interference.
‘The MODE control is used to regulate the amount of ground signal the detector's
electronic circuitry can handle. The HIGH setting allows for typical high mineral
ground. There are some rare areas of low ground minerals. These areas are best
searched with the MODE control set to LOW. If you are unfamiliar with ground
mineralization always start with the HIGH setting, reserving the LOW setting for
atime when you have more experience. Each time the MODE control is changed
toa different position it is best to squeeze and release the TRIGGER on the
handle with the loop at waist level.
‘When a new area is to be searched, the following steps should be followed to
maximize performance. When changing to another area, or when dramatic
changes in the ground are visible, these steps should be repeated.
Fine Tuning Steps:
1. Set MODE to BAT. ¥, and look at the meter to assure the batteries test good.
2, Set MODE to HIGH, squeeze and release the TRIGGER on the handle.
3. Hold the loop at waist level and adjust the TUNER for a slight hum.
©Fine Tuning & General Use, Continued
4, Push the AUTO GEB switch to the AIR position and hold it there until the
detector beeps. Immediately lower the loop to the ground and pull the AUTO
GEB switch to the GND AUTO TRAC position (ground auto tracking). Hold the
loop steady until the detector again beeps,
5. If the ground is low in mineralization (rare) you may want to set the MODE to
the LOW position, squeeze and release the TRIGGER on the handle and repeat
step 4 (AUTO GEB). If you were mistaken about the ground being low in
mineralization, the detector will respond to the ground (false signal) and other-
wise act unstable and unpredictable. If this occurs you should switch back to the
HIGH position, squeeze and release the TRIGGER on the handle, and repeat step
4 (AUTO GEB). You can then resume searching. If the SIERRA MADRE
works smooth, stable, and predictably at the LOW setting, then continue to use
the LOW position in that type of ground,
MFine Tuning & General Use, Continued
6. As searching begins, the sweep of the loop plays a critical role in how well the
detector works. Sweep the loop close to the ground, from side to side, overlap-
ping each pass. One pass from left to right should take one and a half to two
seconds. Moving from right back to left, where the sweep first started, should
take another one and a half to two seconds. The maximum detection depth will be
in the center of the loop, thus if loop passes are not overlapped by at least 50%,
some deep targets may be missed. Do not arc the sweep at each end. Keep the
loop close to the ground throughout the sweep.
WV
7. Once a solid abrupt "beep" is heard, (indicating a metal), sweep the loop over
the area several times so as to roughly find the center. Consult the meter indica-
tion which will indicate the furthest positive (to the right) when the loop is
rectly over the metals center. Further pinpointing assistance may be achieved by
squeezing and holding the TRIGGER on the handle. Squeeze and hold the TRIG-
GER on the handle, and "X" the loop over the area. Note the loudest sound and
furthest meter movement to the right. This pinpoints the metals precise location
and by sweeping the loop over the general area gives some idea as to it's size and
shape. Shallow targets may be difficult to pinpoint. Lifting the loop a few inches
higher and again sweeping over the area will improve accuracy in such cases.
®Fine Tuning & General Use, Continued
8, Pinpointing and digging take some time and practice. Many different types of
digging tools are available to help you, If you don't yet have a digging tool,
contact your dealer. ‘The type of digging tool best for your area, your type of
searching, and best for you personally, is a matter of opinion. The important
thing to remember is consideration. Fill in all holes you dig. Be thoughtful
regarding where and when you dig. Obviously midday on a beach crowded with
sun bathers, is not a good place to search. Early morning or late evening is more
appropriate. If someone cares for a lawn (keeps it looking nice) and yet gives you
permission to search, be equally thoughtful by taking extra steps to minimize any
damage digging may do to the vegetation. The use of a small drop cloth (to place
dug soil onto) is suggested in such areas. This minimizes soil smearing around
the hole, making such diggings less noticeable.
Center of Maximum Signal
equals
Center of Target
1
Target
9. A location to search, and getting permission, is a major part of successful metal
detecting. Research always pays off. It may mean digging through old newspa-
pers at the local library, documents at city hall, or just talking to a lot of longtime
citizens. You will be surprised what you can find out, and research can be half
the fun! Do not be discouraged if someone has already searched an area, that just
makes for a little more challenge. No one finds all the valuables in an area even
with multiple searches. Take a little more time and dig a few more targets. Often
areas replenish themselves either through use, such as a beach where jewelry is
continually lost, or through naturally occurring shifts in the soil, frost heave,
erosion, efc., which bring previously undetected targets within reach. Sand and
soil movement in many areas makes each season a new ball game.
@)Explanation Of Controls
1. MODE: The MODE control turns the instrument ON/OFF, tests the
battery strength (BAT. \), and selects either HIGH (MINERAL) or LOW
(MINERAL) ground. Special attention must be used when changing
MODEs. Each time the MODE is changed the TRIGGER on the handle
should be squeezed and released.
A..OFF position is selected when the detector is not in use. (Batteries
should be removed when the detector is stored.)
B. BAT. CHK. Battery Check is used to check the condition of
the batteries. When placed in this position, the current battery
condition is shown on the meter. An indication anywhere in the
BATTERY GOOD area will operate the detector. Once the battery
no longer indicates in the BATTERY GOOD area, new batteries should
be installed. Usually batteries last between eight and fifteen hours
of use. (Battery life varies with type, temperature, mode, and
volume). The use of headphones will significantly improve battery
life.
C. HIGH MINERAL is the primary MODE used for general searching.
It minimizes common high mineral ground effects (large ground signal).
High ground mineralization typically will cause more receive signal than
the electronic circuitry can handle. Such conditions result in overload of
the receiver, which will cause poor detection depth. The HIGH setting
‘compensates for such ground conditions.
D._LOW MINERAL is used in those rare areas that have little or no
mineralization. It maximizes performance in such low mineral ground
(minimal ground signal). Low ground mineralization typically has little or
no effect on the receive signal, the LOW setting compensates for this lack
of ground signal thus improving performance in such ground types.
CAUTION: If the LOW setting is used in high ground mineralization the
detector will become unstable and unpredictable. Switching back to the
HIGH setting, squeezing and releasing the TRIGGER on the handle, and
repeating the AUTO GEB sequence will regain the stability necessary for
‘good detection results.
0)Explanation Of Controls, Continued
2. TUNER: The TUNER selects the steady hum or threshold which should
be heard continually during use. The TUNER should be set to a slight steady
hum (threshold) each time the instrument is to be operated. Changes in
temperature will change the particular area of the control needed to achieve
a threshold hum.
A. To set the TUNER. hold the loop at waist level away from metal and
the ground, turn the TUNER control until a very slight faint hum (threshold) is
heard. The TUNER control should end up near Y.
B. Silent Search once the threshold has been set, the TUNER can be
turned very slightly toward (-) to produce silent searching until a target is de-
tected. Doing so, some detection depth may be lost.
3. AUTO GEB: The AUTO GEB switch is used to select the actual ground
rejection setting, so that ground minerals can be ignored. When ground
minerals are ignored, increased detection depth and smoother operating
stability are achieved. The AUTO GEB also selects whether the ground
rejection setting stays as originally set (LOCK), or whether the instrument
automatically updates this original setting to accommodate naturally occur-
ring changes in the soils mineralization, (AUTO TRAC). Setting the AUTO
GEB is recommended each time you use your instrument.
‘A. To set the AUTO GEB_ place MODE to HIGH, squeeze and release
‘TRIGGER on handle. Hold the loop at waist level away from all types of
metals and ground minerals and adjust the TUNER for a slight back-
ground hum. Press the AUTO GEB switch to the air position and hold it
there until a "beep" is heard. Immediately lower the loop to the ground to
be searched and pull the AUTO GEB switch down to the GND AUTO
TRAC position. Hold the loop steady until another "beep" is heard.
B. GND AUTO TRAC is recommended for most searching conditions as
it automatically tracks (adjusts) to any changes in the ground. This con-
tinual updating of the ground rejection setting improves performance.
C. LOCK. may be desired in areas which contain a lot of man-made
decomposed iron, such as rusty iron which will tend to trick the AUTO
TRAC feature (recognizing it as a mineral rather than a metal).
ayyExplanation Of Controls, Continued
4. TRIGGER SWITCH: The TRIGGER switch located on the handle is used
for several different purposes. The TRIGGER has three possible positions;
"center" which is used for normal searching, "squeezed and held" which
activates a temporary change in the mode, and "locked forward" which is
the same as squeezing and holding except mode change is locked in.
A. Reset, clear, or retune after control adjustments or pinpointing. Most
control adjustments will cause sections of the electronic circuitry to
become out of sequence. Squeezing and releasing the TRIGGER will
reset of clear so that all the electronic circuitry works in unison. Manual
pinpointing (when the TRIGGER is squeezed and released while the loop
is near a metal) will narrow the loop's detection field. This is called de-
tuning. The loop's detection field will remain narrow until the TRIGGER
is squeezed and released (while holding the loop away from any metal).
This resets the loop's detection field allowing it to detect its widest
possible search pattern.
B. Changes Mode Squeezing and holding the TRIGGER or pushing it
forward locking it in place will temporarily activate the all-metal non-
motion mode. ‘This is ideal for pinpointing as the search mode requires
some movement of the loop to respond to metal targets, making
pinpointing difficult for some individuals. Holding the TRIGGER
disengages the stabilizing motion feature. This mode can only be accessed
by squeezing and holding the TRIGGER or pushing it forward to lock.
Because it lacks the stability of the standard search mode it is not
recommended to continually search with this mode accessed. The
standard search mode is designed for general searching. This pinpoint
mode is best reserved for pinpointing. Releasing the TRIGGER returns
the instrument to the original mode.
(12)The Meter
The Meter is used to test the battery strength, and provides a visual in
tion of a metal by deflecting positively (to the right). The meter and the
sound "beep" work simultaneously to provide an
ar ce a
Chine
Fifteen Inch Loop
The optional (accessory) fifteen inch loop increases detection depth regarding
physically large targets. Little or no increase in detection depth may be noted on
small (coin sized) targets. The increase in detection depth applies only to physically
large metal items, or a large group of small targets (jar of coins). Tuning and use of
the fifteen inch loop is identical to use of the smaller loop size. Sweeping the loop a
little slower is suggested when the larger loop is used. If you have trouble with the
added weight of the fifteen inch loop you may consider White's Hipmount Conver
sion Kit, or contact your Dealer for other handle support options.
Headphones
The optional (accessory) headphones are recommended for use with the Sierra
Madre. Headphones will increase battery life, reduce distractions, and allow better
hearing of the signals produced by metals. Most often headphones have separate
volume controls for each ear, and a stereo/mono switch. Check that each is in the
correct position so that sound is heard from both ears.
13)Trouble Shooting
When trouble occurs with the use of a metal detector, often a person can
avoid unnecessary inconvenience by reviewing the following tips.
1. False Signals or Instability can often be caused by situations outside of the
detector. For example electrical interference from power lines, or other high
power transmitting devices. Often these devices can be identified, sometimes
they can not.
A. Try the HIGH MINERAL MODE setting , squeeze and release the
‘TRIGGER and repeat the AUTO GEB sequence.
B. Persistent false signals may require that you try searching a different
area, at least several miles away. If you really want to search a high
interference area, try different times of the day or week. Often such
interference is only present at scheduled times.
C. If not area related, start checking the components of the detector. The
battery pack should be removed from the instrument and the contacts
inside the "C" cell battery holder should be scratched clean of any corro-
sion buildup, and the springs should be stretched a little to assure a firm.
contact. The contacts on the outside of the battery holder should also be
scratched clean of any corrosion. The battery contacts inside the instru-
‘ment battery compartment should be pulled slightly outward toward the
battery door so that they make a firm contact with the battery. The instru-
ment control box should be checked with a different loop, either an acces-
sory, or a friend's loop off a similar model. Your Dealer may also be able
to assist you in checking the instrument. Loop problems are most often
due to damaged cable, from snags on brush or blackberry vines, or simple
cable wear. Inspect the cable for any visible signs of damage.
2. Moisture and Humidity, when extreme, can cause problems with all electri-
cal circuits, Most electronics are only guaranteed to operate in up to 75% humid-
ity, which is minimal humidity in some areas. Although the electrical circuitry of
your instrument has been sealed with a plastic coating, wetness can still cause
failure, particularly when the dampness is combined with salt, as occurs in many
beach environments.
‘A. Damp Environment Use should always be followed by placing the
detector in a warm dry place to dry out when not in use. Remove the
batteries and leave the battery door open.
(14)Trouble Shooting, Continued
B. Dampness Failure can often be cured simply by drying the instrument
ut in the above manner. Dampness failure can cause varied symptoms,
everything from complete non-responsiveness to instability or false-
targeting.
3. Meter Indications can be affected by static electricity. This static can get on
the meter face and housing and cause improper meter indications, inaccuracy, and
even total lock-up of the meter needle. Such static electricity usually comes from
household or automobile carpet, or clothing. When passing your finger past the
meter needle causes significant meter movement, static electricity is the problem.
‘A. Meter Failure should be remedied by discharging any electrical field
buiit up in the meter housing and meter face cover. Anti-static clothes
dryer sheets work well for this purpose, and can be purchased inexpen-
sively from the grocery store. Computer stores have an antistatic spray
which also works well. With the clothes dryer sheets simply wipe the
black meter housing and meter face cover thoroughly. Use several of the
individual sheets. With the antistatic spray, spray the meter housing and
face cover, wipe dry with a cotton cloth.
B. Once Static is Removed the meter should return to normal. Removing.
meter static electricity may be necessary from time to time.
4, Repairs in the unlikely event your instrument requires servicing should be
referred to a trained professional at an Authorized White's Service Center.
Today's models require specialized equipment and training to service properly.
All White's Authorized Service Centers have years of experience and their work is
guaranteed by the factory.
5. The Location of the White's Authorized Service Center for your area is
enclosed in the Accessories catalog. If misplaced, telephone toll free
1-800-547-6911 for their name and address. Please send the complete unit with
an explanation of the trouble.
as)Caring For Your Instrument
Precautions:
1. Water can damage your instrument, The loop is waterproof and submersible,
however the loop-to-control box connector and the control box itself are not
waterproof. Light rain or drizzle will not cause a problem. However, the instru-
‘ment control box must be protected from heavy rain or submersion in water.
A. The loop can be cleaned with a mild soap and water. A damp cloth can
be used to wipe clean the control box. ‘The control box can be polished
with automotive or furniture wax. Use only cotton cloth to clean and wax.
The instrument should be cleaned after heavy use in or around a saltwater
beach, Salt is very corrosive. (The warranty does not cover cosmetic
imperfections due to wear, or exposure to sun and salt.)
B. When searching with the loop in the water or wading, be careful. The
rod will fill with water, and if lifted above the height of the control box,
will run into the rod on top of the control box. Although sealed, some
seepage can occur into and on top of the circuitry, causing malfunction.
Again, drying the detector in a warm area with battery removed and
compartment open will most often cure any malfunction. If for any reason
the control box is dunked in saltwater, flush the entire instrument with
fresh water immediately prior to letting the detector dry out.
2. Loop Covers, a protective plastic shield for the loop bottom, are highly advised
accessories when searching sand or rocky terrain on a regular basis. They are
available from Dealers and have no effect on detection depth. Loop covers should
be removed periodically to remove any sand which can affect detector perfor-
mance.
3. Heat and Cold can have an adverse effect on your detector. When not search-
ing, rest your detector in the shade. When left in a car on a hot day, cover it to
protect it from the direct sun. Extreme sub-zero temperatures can also cause
problems. Store your detector indoors in a heated area during the winter months,
with the batteries removed from the instrument and from the battery holder.
4, Common Sense should be used. Avoid impacts, stacking heavy objects on top,
and unnecessary roughhousing. When not in use, the detector should be treated
like any other sophisticated electronic device.
a6)Owner Information
Serial Number:
Date Code:,
Purchase Date:
Dealer Name:
Dealer's Address:
Telephone Number:
Payment Method:
Personal Markings:
(6 digits on inside of battery compartment door)
(6 digits on inside of battery compartment door)
( date on the sales receipt or invoice)
a7)Warranty Information
Should you for any reason sell your metal detector prior to the warranty described
on the following page expiring, the remaining warranty is transferable. ‘This,
transfer is authorized by calling toll free 1-800-547-6911, and getting an authori-
zation number.
Fill out the following information, including the authorization number obtained
from the toll free number, seal it in a stamped envelope, and send it to White's
Electronics, 1011 Pleasant Valley Road, Sweet Home, Oregon 97386. The
remaining warranty will then be available to the new owner.
‘The warranty statement on the following page applies to both the original owner
as well as the second owner.
Original Owner: ;
¥
Address which appeard on original warranty card: I
——— eee
ee eee eee eee
Instrument Serial Number:
Date Code:
w_ Owner:
‘Name: ds
|
Address: |
Authorization Code: 1
a8)White's Electronics, Inc.
Limited Warranty
If within two years (24 months) from the original date of purchase, your White's
detector fails due to defects in either material or workmanship, White's will repair
‘or replace at it's option, all necessary parts without charge for parts or labor,
Simply return the complete detector to the Dealer where you purchased it, or to
your nearest Authorized Service Center. The unit must be accompanied by a