Robertson HLD350 hydraulic autopilot motor

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Caladh

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I have one of these dating from 1996. No manual for it but found one online. there is nothing about preventative maintenance and I wondered if I should be "doing" something!
The hydraulic ram look nice and clean and shiny but should I apply light oil/grease/other or just leave well alone?
 
I don't know much about the Robertson system, but in general routine maintenance of hydraulic systems, you should change the oil periodically. Hydraulic oil is hydroscopic and will absorb water over time. If the cylinder isn't leaking leave it alone the only exception might be to cover the exposed part of the ram with a cloth soaked in oil, to stop it coroding over the winter, and even that might not be necessary. Other than that, tackle any rust sooner rather than later.
 
If, as it looks like, there is a motor, then it's brushes. Mine did 500+ hours per year, the brushes needed changing maybe every 3-4 years. Carried spares, it could be done at sea, but usually flagged up by occasional reticence for operation in one direction.
 
I had one of these on my cat. No maintenance required apart from keeping it clean. DONT grease external parts as it will just collect dirt and not achieve anything. Check hydraulic oil levels periodically and use only recommended oil. If after years of use the oil leaks at the piston seals they are industry standard and easy to replace. Unless you have a problem though leave it alone. "If it aint broke don't mend it"!
 
Caladh said:
Thanks for those thoughts. As for changing the fluid I’ve no idea but I’d guess I’ll need to removed the unit. Currently inclined to leave it alone. It is remarkably clean for its age!
Click to expand...
From memory the hydraulic tank is a square box in the centre of the unit with a filler plug in the top.
 
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