The Raymarine linear drive on my 2007 Hunter 41DS no longer engages when Auto mode is selected. The S3 Autopilot Controller shows full voltage being applied to the clutch, but the linear drive fails to engage. Given the history of clutch failure on these type drives, I plan to pull the linear drive and repair it. However, I have not found a way to access the drive unit to remove it. Has anyone owning a Hunter 41DS experienced removing the linear drive unit? If so, please share your method. Otherwise, I am planning to access the unit by cutting a section out of the port side stern storage compartment to reach it from above.
2007 Hunter 41DS Autopilot Linear Drive Failure
- Thread starter keepsmilin
- Start date
Does not the aft cabin ceiling liner/cover screw on? I know I have laid on the bunk while under way and it sure sounds like the drive is above the bunk, I wouldn't be cutting holes in the port lazaret unless that is the last resort.
I found this information which will be very helpful, but I could swear that the actuator on the our 41DS is actually on the Starboard side, the way to tell for certain is to remove the access cover from the cockpit floor, its only 4 screws and then slide it aft out of the way.
I found this information which will be very helpful, but I could swear that the actuator on the our 41DS is actually on the Starboard side, the way to tell for certain is to remove the access cover from the cockpit floor, its only 4 screws and then slide it aft out of the way.
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DayDreamer41, Thank you for your excellent suggestion. I will check it out on Monday and let you know. The linear drive is on the port side on my boat. With the aft stateroom a/c on the port side of the aft cabin, access from the stern compartment behind the aft stateroom bulkhead makes access from there impossible. Also, access from the port side lazaret is impossible with the position of my Panda Generator. I hope your suggestion is the answer. I agree with your comment about cutting out a section of the floor in the port side lazaret. That’s why I decided to share my problem with the forum. Multiple heads are better then one. Thanks again for your help.
Dave
Dave
These linear drives are notorious for clutch and also gear failures, but they are also ubiquitous. I had been on the lookout for them on eBay and surplus shops and finally picked up a spare. It lacks a mounting foot, but there's one on the boat, and I don't need the foot on the spare. My plan is to connectorize both so I can swap out a failed one in a hurry.
What I thought was the best linear drive in this size and power range is the Simrad HLD2000, which is an electric over hydraulic unit. They are expensive. I had one, but sold it as part of a package once I got this boat with the Raymarine drive.
What I thought was the best linear drive in this size and power range is the Simrad HLD2000, which is an electric over hydraulic unit. They are expensive. I had one, but sold it as part of a package once I got this boat with the Raymarine drive.