Autopilots - worth avoiding Raymarine?

[Solent Sailor]

My ancient ST7000+/400 autopilot doesn't seem happy any longer - helm is always to one side and even when it isn't it doesn't hold a course. Have tested both the compass and the rudder position sensor, both appear to be working within the accepted parameters.

So, it looks to me like the computer itself could be at fault and is probably due replacement.

Obvious choice would be a new ACU400/EV+ system which would integrate with my Axiom/eS instruments and I could still use the flybridge ST7000 head unit as a slave. I don't tend to use the MFD autohelm controls anyway (bit fiddly).

But - I'm getting rather cheesed off with Raymarine kit failing and wonder whether there are better options out there?

Is anyone else using Furuno, Garmin or Simrad autopilots on a similar sized vesssel (48ft, 17tonnes, 24v, type 2 hydraulics to the rudders).

 

[Higgo]

Hi. I have an older ST6000+ and a type 100 course computer driving a similar size craft. I've also install a RM Ng backbone integrating the autopilot to multiple MFD's (e127/e125/c97) and other stuff.

When you say, you've checked the compass, I presume you mean the fluxgate compass connected to the course computer. Assuming you're also checked the pump/ram oil level and air line issues, is the little boat (direction indicator) on your mfd straight (N/S using Heads up display). If not, the fluxgate compass is confused and needs resetting. There are also rudder adjustment settings accessed via the ST7000 control head.

You say it doesn't hold a course, does it move to a particular course, then proceed in a straight line from there. What happens if you hit +10 or 20 (course adjustment) then, does it move/change course by the degree adjustment then go straight again?? If so that seems to me to be a confused fluxgate compass. If you're at the dock with autopilot engaged and you change course via adjusting the control head by say 40 deg, does the rudder move, trying to take you in that direction?? If you adjust it back to the original setting, again does the rudder move back?? Just a few troubleshooting things might help eliminate a few things. For example, the fluxgate compass may be the issue, vs the course computer.

I've found sourcing parts (even second hand) including the fluxgate compass from eBay a good source. You might have to source it out out eBay.com USA if they'll ship to the UK, but persevere. I've sourced a ST600r hand controller and more recently a ST6002 that I'll change out as my current control head screen ST6000+ is getting darker from sun exposure. I've also seen type 100 replacement course computers on there as well. I'd try troubleshooting your older stuff before going the new latest replacement route.

I'd also be sticking with RM given that you already have the Axiom display. RM also have proprietary cables/connectors so it's a pain changing out that stuff or cutting them off and trying to splice wires. If I'm not mistaken, I presume you have or need a ST/ng2000 mini backbone to integrate your old ST7000 into the Axiom.

Anyway, I hope this helps. RM also have a tech forum that would be worth a look or join and post a more specific query there.

Cheers

 

[superheat6k]

You open your thread stating 'Ancient' and then go on to complain that somehow the quality of the Raymarine kit is dubious. Seems a little unfair.

I have had Raymarine Autohelms on my last 5 boats from ST1000 tiller pilots to ST7000 and all have worked impeccably.

I wouldn't touch Simrad kit with a barge pole - not just because the kit is, in my own experience, poor (NB no experience of their auto pilots) but the customer service is, again in my experience, lousy too.