Asus RT-AC86U 2.4GHZ not available in the Wi-Fi list

[Tibor Makai]

I have picked up this router from CL, with this issue. 2.4GHZ not working, only the 5GHZ.
I was planning on using it as a repeater, for one of my IP cameras, temporarily until I make my Ethernet cable runs.
I had to try to fix it, before I would do that. I'm not an expert with these issues, but I worked on a a few Asus routers, including the T-Mobile one.
As a repeater, does not show the 2.4GHZ band, with none of the firmwares available, Asus nor Merlin. I have even tried and older one(384.3).
The LED turns on, for the 2,4GHZ band.
When I turned it into the main router, the symptoms were the same, with one exception, if I choose the 2.4GHZ connection, from one of the repeaters, I can browse the internet(!). So I guess the 2.4GHZ band is working on, it, just does not show up in the wi-fi network list, nor in the inssider app.
Tried the regular 20HZ, choosing a band(which I always have set), disabled some of the beamforming stuff, but no dice.
Any help would be appreciated.

Tibor

 

[ColinTaylor]

I think this problem has been reported a few times. The solution was to get a replacement unit because it's a hardware fault.

 

[Tibor Makai]

It may be the issue, but I don't have the option to replace it.
I'm willing to go component level repair, if I have to.
Anybody has done that before?
The 2.4GHZ radio IC has to be replaced?

 

[Tibor Makai]

You were right.
I have took it apart and found a hole, in the 2.4GHZ radio IC.
I will have to look, if I can find this IC somewhere.

 

[Tibor Makai]

I have marked the bad spot, with an arrow.
Initially, it was bubbled up. I have "cleaned" it, with something pointy.