Replacement for dying Garmin 305

My 305 started doing the same thing a couple of weeks ago.  I completely drained the battery and then recharged it.  The problem seems to have corrected itself, for now.  

I also noted that even though it said low battery at the beginning of a run it would stay on as if the battery had a full charge.  You could also do a hard reset and see if that helps.  

^^^this is the right solution.  try keeping the 305 in training mode and let the battery run all the way down, and then recharge.  if that doesn't work... you get to go shopping.

I know you said you don't want the 910xt, but I used it once inside while swimming laps and it was awesome.  It's like a whole new world, seeing swim data when I've gone a few seasons without it.   Anecdotally I've always known how my swim speed / efficiency changes but being able to see the data was pretty cool.  

Not sure what I'll do with the info, but still.   For me, it's like the transition from running 'naked' to running with a GPS device for the first time. 

Is it worth the extra $150 from the 310?  Not sure, but still is nice!

Same thing recently happened with my 305.  Like you, I did not want (to pay for) the additional bells and whistles that come on the newer models.  I called Garmin, and they traded out my old one for a refurished 305 for $85.  The refurbed one looks/feels like new, and they said it has a new battery in it.  I kept my HR strap, charger, etc., and just swapped out the wrist unit itself.  If it will last me another year or two, I'll be a happy camper.  They said the refurbed ones are subject to availability, and that they are having a lot of requests for them.

I'm with Squirt - my battery died and they said just send it back and for $79 they would replace it (plus shipping).  Can't touch a new one for near that price.  Mine actually ended up being free because I guess it was under warranty.

I tried all the battery tricks and none of them worked.  I did check out on line just figuring I'd buy a new one.  Well when I did find them they were a lot more than $79 so sending it back was a no brainier. I too didn't want to spend much for a new fangled one   Heck, I don't even use the HR monitor anymore, just pace, time and distance.

Duane

Duane, glad that worked out for you.

At least for me, replacing a 305 battery requires skills and tools that I do not possess.  Even if I cracked open the case successfully, the battery is soldered in, and a bit difficult to connect back up correctly. If you have those skills/tools, you might be onto something re: fixing them for people.