SPRINKLER TALK FORUM - You Got Questions, We've Got Answers

[Just to state the obvious]
Buy a new controller.
[/Just to state the obvious]

You got 10+ years out of the current one, and a quick Google appears to indicate they still make a version of the Greenkeeper, though you might find something at the local Lowe's or Home Depot that's cheaper.

If you don't need a bunch of different programs for the different zones (i.e. you run all the zones back-to-back on the same days) then Orbit makes a 4 and 6 zone controller for as little as $20 and $25 at Lowe's.

I wouldn't scrap your controller just yet. There is nothing wrong with it. I know you said you checked, double checked, and neighbor checked the controller...but..what exactly did you check? For more than one start time? The Greenskeeper controllers also have functions for Programs A,B,C. These might also have start times programmed that are causing multiple cycles. Did you try unplugging the controller and removing the battery to reset the controller to the default settings? If not, you may want to give that a try too.

Tony raises an excellent point. i would say out of 800 customers i have, at least half of them play with the clock and manage to get 2 3 or even 10 start times programmed in, and that will cause exactly that probly. also, i regards to the comment about orbit controllers, just remember you get what you pay for...especially in this industry. i would recommend going with a hunter pro-c to ensure that you have a good, solid and durable clock that will have a long life. but check those start times first!

I would go with a new controller just because of all of the new technology, you cannot go wrong. So much nicer and easier to program and adjust later. Hunter Pro-C is my recomendation.