autohelm 4000+ problem

[John]

Over this last weekend, I had a repeat of a problem I'd had before with my Autohelm st4000+ autopilot. The lever that engages the motor to the wheel would flip up (disengage) regularly. Has anybody else had this problem? Anybody have any idea what could be causing it and whether it can be repaired or if I need to junk it? Thanks.

 

[DanG]

Over this last weekend, I had a repeat of a problem I'd had before with my Autohelm st4000+ autopilot. The lever that engages the motor to the wheel would flip up (disengage) regularly. Has anybody else had this problem? Anybody have any idea what could be causing it and whether it can be repaired or if I need to junk it? Thanks.

That is a common problem with the 4000. On the back of the wheel, next to the lever is a small plug. Under the plug is a hex screw. This adjustes the belt tension by turning a roller that is on a cam and may help. You might also consider a new belt. If those fail, a small bungee cord is usually all that is needed to hold it in place.

 

[John]

thanks

Thanks, Dan. I just installed a new belt. It seemed to have plenty of tension when I installed it, but maybe it's stretched a little since then. I'll give that a try. By the way, does anything inside the ring need to be lubricated? If so, with what sort of lubricant?

 

[Philip_Oceanis 361]

By the way, does anything inside the ring need to be lubricated? If so, with what sort of lubricant?

No, don't lubricate anything. You can clean it with fresh water for any dust or salt next time you will disassemlble it but I wouldn't recommend any kind of lubricant (especially mineral based such as WD40) on the belt.