Stowe Dataline windex siezed.

[sailingdan]

Hi everyone, first time poster looking for some information - if anyone could help I'd be very grateful.
We've taken down the mast head unit of our stowe Dataline system as we stopped getting any information showing on the cockpit display - and found the bearings have siezed.
I've read that the bearings are replacable with some fiddling, but we also had the unit looked at and we've been told the potentiometer for the windvane is starting to break up. If I don't get it going then it's going in the bin anyhow so I'm not loosing anything by having a go myself but does anyone have a manual or any idea how it comes apart, or how to recalibrate it post rebuild?

Thanks!
Dan.

 

[jerryat]

I used to have Stowe kit and it was excellent, so I agree with your having a go at repairing it.

First, does your M/H unit have the screw-in oil nipple at the front of the barrel? It's usually covered by a rubber cap to keep dirt out.

If so, disassembly is simple. Unscrew the oil nipple and set aside. You will then find that the cup assembly can be eased down out of the barrel for inspection and repair, though I've never actually had to repair the unit when I owned one. You may find that just cleaning it up will get it going again.

Obviously it'll make sense to remove the direction vane assembly at the same time and ensure that it's spotlessly clean too.

 

[KREW2]

I took mine apart a couple of seasons ago. Jerryat is right loosen the oil screw, take a firm grip at the hub of the cups, ease it out gently and take note of how it should go back. If I recall there are a few small washers that need to go back in the right order. With any luck a good clean and oil will see it right.

 

[sailingdan]

Thank you for the advice, I'll give it a go and let you know how I get on!

 

[Stork_III]

My DatalineX unit has flip lid on top, prise open to reveal screw, holds it together.

Calibration for direction is made in Wind/Tack display CAL mode. PM me if you want need PDF of manual, I have Wind, Tack, Central and Databox manuals in PDF.