john_morris_uk
Well-known member
I installed a new Raymarine Autopilot last autumn when we were in Gibraltar. New P70 control head, new EV-1 course computer and a Type 2 Rotary drive unit onto a sprocket and chain to a rack and pinion on a quadrant on the rudder stock. It’s worked perfectly up until a few days ago when the clutch in the rotary drive has started to grab occasionally even when the autopilot is turned off.
I’ve checked the feed to the clutch and it’s 12.67 volts when autopilot engaged and 0 volts when it’s disengaged which is all correct.
I phone Raymarine technical help and explain the problem. I also point out that I bought it in Gibraltar but I’m now in Guadeloupe. No problem, they say, I need to get their local service agent in. They give me the number of Raymarine Guadeloupe. I phone them and they say, “Take the boat back to where you bought it.” I say, “That’s impractical.” They say “Unbolt it and post it back.” I say, “That’s impractical.” They give a Gallic shrug over the telephone and say it’s not their problem.
I phone Raymarine back and complain that they advertise an international support service. They are a bit embarrassed and admit some of their dealers don’t cooperate as well as they should.
We’ve agreed I’ll take the boat to St Lucia where they’ve got a main dealer.
I live in hope…
I’ve checked the feed to the clutch and it’s 12.67 volts when autopilot engaged and 0 volts when it’s disengaged which is all correct.
I phone Raymarine technical help and explain the problem. I also point out that I bought it in Gibraltar but I’m now in Guadeloupe. No problem, they say, I need to get their local service agent in. They give me the number of Raymarine Guadeloupe. I phone them and they say, “Take the boat back to where you bought it.” I say, “That’s impractical.” They say “Unbolt it and post it back.” I say, “That’s impractical.” They give a Gallic shrug over the telephone and say it’s not their problem.
I phone Raymarine back and complain that they advertise an international support service. They are a bit embarrassed and admit some of their dealers don’t cooperate as well as they should.
We’ve agreed I’ll take the boat to St Lucia where they’ve got a main dealer.
I live in hope…