autohelm 3000

[Lionel]

I just bought my 34 and I am experiencing problem with the autohelm3000. It just does not work properly for more than 2 minutes .Tried motoring , sailing ...different headings , different speads Before I start opening the toolboxe, could you tell me if the autohelm 3000 is the proper autopilote for a H34 ( 1984)and if so then where should I start looking ( I have the original tech manual )Thanks for your help Lionel

 

[Tim]

got one on a H30

What's it do wrong? Do you have a manual? Some common problems:-it has a magnetic compass in it; is there anything metallic near the head? Does it work better if you reposition it? I've had problems from stereo speakers and evenold style soda cans.-watch the belt does it slip? They do wear out.-does it over correct? the gain is adjustable...

 

[Joe O]

Upgrade to an ST4000+

If your 3000 isn't working well, send it into the Raytheon Repair Center and they may take it in exchange for a rebuilt ST4000+ for about $450. It's a great deal and a much better autopilot (with 2-year warranty). Money well spent! Check out the Raytheon website for addresses and contact info.

 

[Ramsay Selden]

May Be Simple

I hesitate to say this, but we sometimes forgot to snap the hold-down, holding the small gear on the autohelm motor to the big gear on the wheel. In this condition, the autohelm appears to be working, but not well. Just trying to make sure it isn't this simple before you get those tools out!Ramsay Selden

 

[Ron Dague]

Autohelm 3000 on h34

I also have an autohelm 3000 on my h34. It appears to be at least 10 years old. I had lots of trouble at first, I was ready to throw it out. Now that I've figured it out, it works great. Check the adjustment for wheel revolutions. Also, it will do real strange things if your voltage drops below 12 volts, so make sure your batteries are okay. Feel free to email me off the list for further help. Photoron@earthlink.net