autohelm type 100/300

[Ardenfour]

Does anyone have any experience of this device? The problem I'm having is a 'low battery' message which comes on whenever I select 'auto' The voltage to the device seems ok at 12.95, and the rudder position indicator displays correctly in all positions. Can't find anything in the manual about cancelling the alarm, other than the annunciation should trip in at 11volts

 

[Cloven]

Assuming you are talking about the Autohelm Navcenter A300, this is just a suggestion but these units are fitted with an internal battery that stores the routes/waypoint information. They are reckoned to last about 5/6 years. It could be that it is this battery that is being referred to. If so, they can be replaced by your local Raymarine dealer.

Hope this helps and sorry if I'm on the wrong track.

 

[Ardenfour]

hi, thanks for your reply. I think I've got a different item to what you're referring to - mine is a basic autopilot, doesn't have waypoints or anything like that

 

[VicS]

Are you actually checking the voltage at the Auto helm while it is in operation?. If not there could be a bit of resistance somewhere in the supply circuit which drops the volts.

I assume you've got it connected with a plug and socket. If so start by making sure the connections in the plug are good and that the pins and the sockets are clean and bright then plug it in with the top of the plug off and monitor the volts here while you select auto. If you do see a drop you'll have to work back progressively through all the connections untill you get to the battery. Fuses, or at least the connections they make in their holders, can sometimes cause problems. Even switches can introduce resistance.

 

[Spyro]

If you want to prove the autohelm is not at fault try running a temporary cable straight from your battery to the plug on the autohelm make sure you have good connections. If all works ok then you probably have a high resistance joint somewhere. Could even be the main feed or earth to the fuse panel ( I assume it it connected via a fuse panel). possible causes are bad crimped connections, corrosion on spade type terminals or too small a gauge of cable.
Good luck