Auto Pilot ST6000 not holding course

[1simon]

HI All,

Lately my ST6000 Autohelm Autopilot is not holding course all the time. Sometimes when I swtich to autopilot the helm turns to starboard or port. Soemtimes I switch to Auto and it holds its course.

Is there anything I can check or do before I call a technician?

Rgrds

Simon

[tiger79]

You could use a multimeter to check the fluxgate compass - http://www.raymarine.co.uk/knowledgebase/index.cfm?view=3798

[Clivert]

Has anyone put something metal or magnetic near the fluxgate compass ?
Alternatively is water getting into the motor ?

[Lyra]

Do you have a rudder feedback sensor - If so I would also check the connection to it.

[1simon]

Thanks for the suggestions. Will tackle tomorrow.

[Salty]

Maybe also check for a loose connection at your course computer terminals.

[MarkTheBike]

If you have an ST60 'Multi' or a volt meter, check the voltage you're getting through the circuit whilst it's doing the steering. I had a similar problem (albeit with an ST4000+) and discovered an occasional drop in voltage from nominal 12.6v-12.8v down to <10v. This only lasts a fraction of a second but is enough to screw the pilot up. Was caused by (as Salty suggests) poor wiring so replaced with proper tinned cable and no problem since... good luck.