[C320-list] Issues with ST4000+ Autopilot

[John Stetson]

Dennis,
Thanks for the input, particularly from your hull number!  I have checked
the rudder position sensor and it seems to be working fine.  In fact, the
whole system seems to be functioning as it should.  I am thinking that the
intermittent nature of the issue is a wiring problem.  Very frustrating to
not know when it is reliable and when it is not.


John Stetson
Morning Star...Again
Hull 578
1999

On Mon, Jul 15, 2024 at 4:56 AM Dennis Cookson via C320-list <
c320-list at lists.catalina320.com> wrote:

> John, check that the ST4000 controller is showing the correct position of
> the rudder at the bottom of the display, adjusting as you turn the wheel.
> If not, check the wiring from the rudder reference unit (position
> indicator) to the SmartPilot unit in the aft lazarette.
>
> Your vessel was built at the same time as ours and we likely have the same
> system!  I am currently relocating my rudder reference device as it was
> never installed properly and only worked in light winds.
>
> Dennis Cookson
> ‘Catalina’ 0577
>
>
>
> > On 14 Jul 2024, at 18:32, John Stetson via C320-list <
> c320-list at lists.catalina320.com> wrote:
> >
> > Our Raymarine ST4000+ Autopilot system is original, installed in 1999.
> > When activating the AUTO mode, the helm goes hard to port.  We have
> > verified the Dealer settings and recalibrated, including successfully
> > turning the boat to swing the compass.  Intermittently, the autopilot
> will
> > work correctly and then, unpredictably, initiate the same turn on its
> own.
> > We have confirmed that there are no ferrous metals within 0.8 m of the
> > fluxgate compass.  Would appreciate any words of wisdom short of
> upgrading
> > to the Evolution EV-100 Wheel Sail Autopilot.
> >
> >
> > John Stetson
> > Morning Star...Again
> > Hull 578
> > 1999
>
>