Autohelm problem

[rjp]

My trusty old analogue Autohelm 1000 (the twist the dial variety) has developed an inconsistent problem. Normally it extends and retract smoothly as it always has, but sometimes it just judders, extending or retracting in small steps. This is regardless of whether it is under any load or not.

Does anyone have any idea what might be wrong and how it can be fixed?

 

[VicS]

The first thing I would do is check the power supply. A poor connection might cause this.

www.Ybw.com/forums/showthread.php?t=220332 is hopefully a link to useful info that you may need if you feel tempted to open the unit up

 

[Spyro]

I think the type you are referring to have a cord type drive inside. It could have stretched over time and became loose on the drive wheel

 

[Dipper]

Mine also use to judder. The rod slides on a shaft with an attached guide that slides on a further two shafts. See photo below. It's possible they need fresh lubrication especially the two outer ones. I used vaseline but I suppose something like winch grease would also do.

 

[Contest1]

I think the type you are referring to have a cord type drive inside. It could have stretched over time and became loose on the drive wheel

Indeed it has a cord drive but this seemed to be for syncing the compas drection, the ram is driven mechanicaly.
Mine failed a couple season before last, motor failure
Replacement was too expensive but I reckoned I,d never get it back together anyway so bought a Simrad TP10.
Not so easy to use or sturdy but getting the hang of it now.

 

[rjp]

Many thanks all for your suggestions. I'll follow up and see how I get on.