Fixing Simrad TP22 tiller autopilot

[msatrhyc]

I need help with my Simrad TP22 tiller autopilot. The bar that moves the tiller is Stack on Port tack. I open the unit but could not see any broken parts. The bar got stuck while I was at the dock and tried to perform some navigation. Is there any way that the bar can be unstuck. No one in Canada seems to be able to have a fix and they are telling me that I have to buy a new unit. Thanks for the help in advance.

 

[lustyd]

In my experience this is probably a power issue, probably due to a bad plug or socket. Wire 12V in a reliable way to it and test, ideally before disassembling!

 

[V1701]

And if/when it does have power and if still stuck I'd press starboard and apply some pressure to the ram to try to get it started on it's way back in...

 

[andsarkit]

There is a service manual here:Manual
If you remove the drive belt you should be able to work out if it is a motor problem or if the pushrod is stuck.

 

[zulloboy]

First things first!
Before you take to it with a screwdriver, confirm whether you get LED's coming on when you plug it in. If not, confirm whether there is power at the socket (ie no blown fuse, dodgy wiring etc).

 

[lustyd]

The LEDs will often come on even with inadequate power so although worth testing this doesn’t confirm a lot

 

[Daydream believer]

..

 

[Ardenfour]

Turn the drive belt by hand to check that nothing is physically jamming the mechanism

 

[andsarkit]

My TP30 lost drive when the motor pulley became detached from the shaft. It is only glued on and if you look at the end of the service manual you will find a note about this. You need to use a different grade of Loctite which seems to have fixed mine. £5 for the Loctite although I only used one drop on the shaft.

 

[PhillM]

Try cleaning around where the ram enters the casing. I’ve seen build up of dust and dirt cause issues on a tp10.

 

[zulloboy]

The LEDs will often come on even with inadequate power so although worth testing this doesn’t confirm a lot

au contraire, it can actually tell the PO quite a lot.
If the LED's come on there is power at the socket.
If they don't come on there is no power.
If the LED's come on but go out when the PO tries to operate the TP, there is power but a poor connection somewhere.
If the LED's stay on when the PO tries to operate the TP, the problem is probably not in the boat's power circuit .