The dreaded wind speed log

[ashtead]

So our wind speed raymarine head unit hasn’t worked for a while but direction is fine. The cups seem not to turn. A trip up the mast maybe but will a spray with silicon fix the non turning cups or is it more serious. Do I need a new mast head unit maybe? New bearings maybe?

 

[Fr J Hackett]

Likely new bearings which can be had cheaply.

 

[Birdseye]

agree. Renewing the bearings is an easy task but take care to align the unit correctly when you re-assemble.

 

[jlavery]

The bearings need to be such low friction that if they're sticking, I don't think lube will help.

 

[ashtead]

Thank you all - I might just have to venture up to see if I can disconnect it as a starter.

 

[srm]

Thank you all - I might just have to venture up to see if I can disconnect it as a starter.

Its a special part of the joys of owning a sailing boat. Take your phone/camera with you and record the pleasure of seeing your pride and joy from a novel angle.

 

[Fr J Hackett]

Its a special part of the joys of owning a sailing boat. Take your phone/camera with you and record the pleasure of seeing your pride and joy from a novel angle.

But don't drop it.

 

[srm]

But don't drop it.

Good practice is to have anything that you take up the mast on a secured lanyard so that it can not be dropped.

 

[ashtead]

Yes indeed the lanyard is a good idea. I helped someone on a Hunter yesterday with his wind indicator and sadly while it was removed and reconnected still didn’t work even though it spins at least. Might try removing and not to drop it on deck .

 

[Roberto]

As an additional info, if the unit (transducers + arm) falls in the sea, it is worth fishing it back, washing in fresh water then thoroughly dry it, maybe washing again with some water absorbent like isopropyl alcohol 99.9%, change bearings and it will work again. Guess how I know.