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SUBJECT: # 26790: Simrad AP12/14 Autopilot Problem-Fix or what to replace it with?
Submitted by Jim (144.160.130.16) from CALIFORNIA on 8/4/04 2:19:00 PM
My autopilot will not hold a course. It starts too, but then starts to veer off to starboard. I have spoken with 4 representives from Simrad and have preformed several tests but I still have the same problem. I get no error messages (blinking lights on computer). They do not know what the problem is - they want me to take everythine off the boat and send it too them...That don't sound like fun. I think I would buy a different unit before I do that. Any ideas on the problem or what unit I should buy?
Thanks.
- 8/4/04 5:03:00 PM
Submitted by
phil (216.192.69.26) from MASSACHUSETTS says compass
Make sure you haven't place something magnetic near the heading compass. I remember putting a charge pack near mine and couldn't figure out why it was doing large circles...
- 8/4/04 6:00:00 PM
Submitted by
Thom (12.165.13.49) from WEST VIRGINIA says I'd Do As They Ask
The only time mine (AP-12H) has ever had any problem was when I repowered and didn't go through the setup routine with the new engine. It was wondering a bit, though it would try to stay on course. Its been fine since I reinititated it. If you like the auto pilot then I'd yank it and send it to them. They won't need the pump and the rest of its pretty straight forward to remove. Of course I don't know what access to the parts is like in your boat, but in mine I could probably pull the compass, feedback unit, control head, and computer in about a half hour, might take me twice that long to reinstall it.I don't know how you feel about yours but I like mine so much I'd definitly send it back. Its not like you are going to get a better one for the price. Now if they were going to offer you a thousand dollar credit towards an AP-11, that would be something to jump on.
Thom
- 8/5/04 2:03:00 PM
Submitted by
Steve F (68.48.35.97) from MARYLAND says Linear feedback unit
I had one for 3 years and had to replace the linear feedback unit (outboard) three times for saltwater intrusion. This only applies of course if you have an outboard. I replaced mine when I went inboard with a Raymarine unit which has served me well. Only thing that bothers me is you should be able to troubleshoot the problem down to the feedback unit if that's the culprit.
- 8/5/04 5:33:00 PM
Submitted by
Jim (144.160.130.16) from CALIFORNIA says The linear feedback voltages are OK - Maybe?
I do have an outboard. The specs call for a voltage variation of between 1 and 4 volts as you turn the engine stop to stop. My voltage read 1.08 to 2.6 volts. Some techs thought that was too low others thought that was within limits. I measured my friends auto (same unit) and his read 1.5 to 3.0 volts and works fine. ??? I went ahead and ordered a feedback unit anyway - I'll see what happens. What the heck it's only $350.00!!!. Should I have bought a case of them? Thanks for the help.
- 8/11/04 12:25:00 PM
Submitted by
Jim (4.241.36.107) from CALIFORNIA says Fix'd it - It was the Linear feedback.
Took a chance - thanks to your help. When I replaced the unit the voltage went from 1.08/2.6 to 1.5/3.0. Works fine now.
