Autohelm ST7000 control unit

[Koeketiene]

Our ageing electronic autopilot seems to be on its last legs.
The screen is still OK (most of the time) but apart from the 'Auto' and 'Stand By' buttons nothing else works.
Changing course means disengaging the autopilot, bringing the boat on the desired course and re-engaging the autopilot.
And very occasionally, the control unit 'dies' even when the boat is on autopilot.
The only way to regain control of the tiller is to dash below and flick the autopilot power switch off.

Does someone have one of these lurking in a shed or locker?
If it's surplus to requirements, I'd be interested.


Thanks

 

[superheat6k]

This is likely dirty contacts on the simple press buttons - have you considered dismantling it and squirting in a part can of contact cleaner ?

 

[Koeketiene]

This is likely dirty contacts on the simple press buttons - have you considered dismantling it and squirting in a part can of contact cleaner ?

Did that last year.
Situation improved somewhat after that.
Now it's worse than it was last year.

 

[ryanroberts]

I saw the insane prices this stuff was being pitched for on ebay and it's almost enough to get a modern A/P with the spares I have. Given I already had to swap one in I think I'll be keeping hold of them though

 

[CrikeyChris]

I have one of these control heads - unfortunately the +1-1+10-10 buttons do not work. All the other buttons work and although it's several years ago when I removed it I do not remember it any other problems.
I did dismantle it but no obvious fault/remedy seen but I had not heard about contact cleaner at the time.

 

[Koeketiene]

I have one of these control heads - unfortunately the +1-1+10-10 buttons do not work. All the other buttons work and although it's several years ago when I removed it I do not remember it any other problems.
I did dismantle it but no obvious fault/remedy seen but I had not heard about contact cleaner at the time.

Same problem here.