[C320-list] Autohelm depth display flashing zero...sometimes

[Jack Brennan]

I always view speed as outdated technology, like a sextant. 

My Open CPN plotter gives me extremely good speed over ground. It’s not hard to figure out current where I sail when you combine that and the feel of the boat.

When I depended on a knot meter, I found that it was often inaccurate due to algae growth, etc.

Jack Brennan
Sonas, 1998 Catalina 320
Tierra Verde, Fl.



Sent from Mail for Windows 10

From: Chris Burti
Sent: Wednesday, May 27, 2020 6:59 PM
To: C320-List at Catalina320.com
Subject: Re: [C320-list] Autohelm depth display flashing zero...sometimes

Kevin,
Unless my ST60 transducer is seated perfectly, my speed will not read. Since I need to take it out to avoid barnacles, it is a frequent problem for me.

Thanks,
Chris Burti
Commitment #867
Farmville, NC

From: Kevin Rooney
Sent: Wednesday, May 27, 2020 5:03 PM
To: C320-List at catalina320.com
Subject: [C320-list] Autohelm depth display flashing zero...sometimes

Transducer failing?

I have a '95 C320 with the original instruments (so 25 years old now). The
display for the Autohelm depth finder recently began flashing "0:00" for
extended periods, but it works other at other times.

I think this is an ST50 unit.

I'm guessing the transducer is getting ready to go bad but don't really
know. Has anyone dealt with this?

Also, my Autohelm speed display just reads zeroes all the time and has for
a while. I haven't dealt with that because speed over the bottom is
available on my GPS chart plotter. I assume this is unrelated to the depth
meter but don't know for sure.

Does anyone here know about these things? Any help would be greatly
appreciated!

Kevin
S/V Cecilia Ann, #211
Deale, MD
http://kevjot.com/boat/