[C320-list] Wheel pilot and Crazy Ivans

[Warren Updike]

Of course, there could be several reasons for the Crazy Ivan. Also may
depend on which generation of autopilot you have.  For the ST4000 and 4000+,
I lean to the power issue.  Note that when the unit is powered up it
intentionally engages the wheel motor the purpose being to insure that the
belt is repositioned.  So, any time the unit is reset, it will perform this
action; and, it is always in the same direction and amount.  I don't know if
the Crazy Ivan is the same action as the reset action.

I've noticed that when a 12V load is added, the current drain will pull down
the voltage and the unit will reset.  I know this because, being lazy, I
powered a 12v receptacle from the same source as the autopilot.  (I know:
bad, bad.) Normally, this is only for my hand-held GPS and that does not
reset the A/P.  However, a greater load, like a pump, and the unit resets.
So, my first steps will be to insure a dedicated and properly sized source
for the A/P. Next, clean all the connections as this hasn't been done in
years. Then, reassess the situation.

Warren & Pattie Updike
1994 C320 #62 "Warr de Mar"

-----Original Message-----
From: Alan Goodman [mailto:goodmanalanlee at hotmail.com] 
Sent: Sunday, February 27, 2011 8:01 PM
To: c320-list at lists.catalina320.com
Subject: [C320-list] Wheel pilot and Crazy Ivans


Hi folks.  Like most of us, I have a ST4000+ wheel autopilot.  Problem is it
is very prone to doing 'crazy ivans' (reference from Tom Clancy's Hunt for
Red October).  I have tested the flux compass following RM's diagnostic
guidelines and it checks out ok.  I don't think my set up has a 'course
computer, just a 'control head' ... does this make sense?  Could this be an
electrical supply problem (short, broken wire?).  Anyone with any insight?
I don't want to have to replace the whole system if it is an easy fix or
just one bad component.  Anyone have an old but working control head and/or
compass ... I would like to use the 'swap and test' method, versus paying
for expensive technician time to trouble shoot with test equipment.  Happy
to pay 'rental fees' for these components and outright purchase the parts
that fix my problem.  Any thoughts from the forum?  Alan Hull #67 Holland,
MI