[C320-list] Autopilot Issues - Possible rudder position sensor?

[Brad Kuether]

Well, first day out after Irene filled up the Chesapeake with debris, logs, barrels, and farm animals, we were told that most of it had cleared and decided to do a quick late afternoon jaunt.

When I engaged the autopilot (Raymarine ST60s), I was watching the display and it LOOKS like the rudder deflection sensor was malfunctioning, causing the the autopilot to steer left and right with no rhyme or reason.  It was tracking the magnetic course just fine.  It essentially rendered the unit un-usable.

Has anyone ever experienced this and if so, what did they do?  I have never really spent much time down in the locker so I am not even sure what the sensor looks like.

Any help would be greatly appreciated.  Thanks so much in advance!!!!!

-Brad, Mary, Monica, and Jarod
"Independence"
2004 Catalina 320 Hull 1006
Middle River, MD