Autohelm 1000 malfunction

[simonfraser]

At least 8 yrs old

Rod moves on manual buttons

But does not hold course, no movement

When auto is selected the rod moves in or out three small steps, after that nothing

Any bright ideas ?

 

[Houleaux]

I can't answer your specific question, but I did have a - much older - Autohelm 2000 repaired by these guys: http://www.tinleyelectronics.com/ Mine would hold a course for a short time and then just extend the arm to the max! It now works fine and the repair was much cheaper than a new replacement.

 

[simonfraser]

Tnx, shall ask them.

 

[Gargleblaster]

I sent my Autohelm 1000 back to Raymarine once because it wouldn't hold auto for more than a minute or two. They told me that their was nothing wrong with the Autohelm but it was likely there was insufficient voltage getting through. I rewired the connection to the plug and solved the problem.

My analysis was that there was sufficient voltage for one or two minor movements but the draw for a more major movement was too much for the Autohelm.

 

[LadyInBed]

Probably corrosion on the fluxgate compass connector.
Ingress of water gathers in the bowl under the fgc.