Prefs always reset to factory

I have a new-to-me iMac G3. I'm running 10.3.9 successfully, however every time I restart, the preferences reset back to factory settings. I can install updates & software, but I have to set it up each time I turn the thing on. If I change the desktop i.e. wall paper, it reverts back to the standard blue.

Any ideas?

Mine does the same thing, only the time is set back to 1969 when I unplug it from the wall... Anyone have any ideas?

It could be the battery, if they have one.

This site is your best bet:

http://www.ifixit.com/cart/catalog/

They have repair instructions for almost everything.

Edited to Add:

Except the iMac range!

Strangely I've tried looking around for instructions/guide for the iMac and they seem to have disappeared, I know they used to exist because I had to repair an eMac and used a guide from somewhere that also had the iMac ones.

Hmmm.

Anyhow you are probably correct in suspecting a battery replacement is in order and a few sites do list replacement parts for sale.

Amen-Moses

This might help:

http://www.macfixitforums.com/printthread.php?Cat=&Board=Forum11&main=799466&type=thread

Amen-Moses

You can pick that battery up at Radio Shack as well. Should be lke $8. I had to replace the one in my G3 iMac about 6 months ago. I cant remember if the battery is accessable from the door on the bottom that lets you access ram or not. if it is not then you need to pull the back case off. pulling that case off is somewhat of a chore but the battery should be pretty easy to find once it is off. (looks like a AAA that got squished) ((also it might be purple))

OK!!.. i spent $35 on a battery..... it is still not saving my preferences.. it saved the time though... What do I do?

Have you renamed your home folder? See the sig....

i fixed it myself... i reformated it and that took care of everything,, settings keep and so does time and date

Who charged you $35 for a battery?

Yeah, I was ripped off for the battery...oh well, I know for the next time. The local Mac dealer in my area charged me $35 for the battery. They are notorious for over-charging people. I should have known not to go there. My fault.

I fixed my problem anyway. I've installed Tiger and everything is working wonderfully. Thanks!