Where is the clutch on an autopilot

[rogersimms]

Hi everyone

I have sadly had to replace my ratheon type 300 autopilot with a new Raymarine SPX30 24 volt. I was hoping that all I would have to do is swap the unit and connect all the wires as per the old unit but alas I need to know the voltage of the clutch. As I have no idea what it is where it is or what it looks like I am stuck.

My boats power source is 24 volt and the manual says that the even though the course computer is 24 volt the clutch could be 12 volt. I have noticed in the past that the display heads when scrolled though the menu system shows 12 volts and not 24 as expected. Tracing wires is an option if only it was that easy and would be a last resort

Can some kind sole enlighted me,Thanks

 

[Finbar]

The clutch is in the drive unit which is controlled by the computer and actually steers your boat. The clutch engages to allow the autopilot steer and disengages to allow you to steer instead. It is generally attached to the rudder stock through a tiller arm or the steering quadrant. Have a look and see if you can identify it, then google to get a manual if you have mislaid the original.

 

[knuterikt]

I don't know the Raymarine SPX30, so this will be a generic ansver.
The clutch is on the drive unit (connected to your rudder shaft or wheel).
When the autopilot is off or in standby mode the clutch must be disengaged so you can move the tiller or wheel.

When autopilot is set in pilotmode the clutch must be engaged.
On some wheel mounted drive units there is a manual clutch operated by a lever, if this is the case you will not need to connect this output.

On other drive units there is electrically operated clutch that get power on/off from the autopilot "brain"