Compass Replacement

[Bennito]

Hi!

Since a search in this forum didnt return any results, I decided to post a new thread. I apologize if this has already been discussed.

Getting our '83 H-27 ready for another beautiful season! We need to either replace or repair our current compass. It is in pretty bad shape...see attached pictures. I have no clue what brand or model it is, but I would like to get it done asap. It is cracked and there is water in it. I think it is a flush-mounted compass, and it is installed on the wheel with 3 screws. It also has wiring for lighting.

I am looking for a reasonable and good place to either order a new one...someone who I can call and explain it to them and they can know which one I can order. My guess is, these boats have standard cut-outs for a new compass. Or a local repair shop (the boat is moored in Havre de Grace, MD).

If you can point me in the right direction, I would be very grateful!
Thanks.

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UPDATE
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After doing a little research, it seems like Hunter has a contract with Ritchie Compass. However, they dont make the compass model for the '83 anymore (seems obvious). The replacement for the original, binnacle mounted compass they have is the Ritchie (part number: p/n H-4055961).

Any thoughts?

 

[Dan D]

The compass on my H28- 1989 was leaking fluid by the end of last season. I called Ritchie Compass and they fixed (actually replaced) the old compass for what amounted to about half the cost of a new one. They shipped it back without charge. All in all, a good transaction

 

[Benny17441]

Compass repair is not an economically viable do it yourself proposition. Most often the casings themselves loose their tolerance necessary for a proper seal. Repaired units need to be pressured tested to insure they are leak free. The best way is to have the unit rebuild by a manufacturer's authorized repair facility. Most large manufacturers keep rebuilt units in stock which allows them to have a quick turnaround in replacing your unit. A rebuilt unit will contain a very high percentage of new parts and will likely look and work like new. Follow Dan's advice and contact Ritchie.

 

[Bennito]

This is very helpful information guys.
I have contact both Ritchie & Viking on getting a qoute.

Thanks for taking the time to help me.
Sail on!!

 

[Nelsonhow]

I replaced the compass on my old h 30 last year. The old one came out with 3 small screws and I replaced it with a Similar Richie compass. The cost of a new was only a little more than the cost of having them rebuild or repair old one. New has an LED night light vs the incandescent bulb in the old one and the new has a guarantee The new was about a $50 more. No brained

 

[Steve Dion]

Contact Nor-Cal Compass (SF Bay area). You can send him your photos and ask him if it is worth repairing or not. It costs about 50% of a new replacment.

 

[Bennito]

Contact Nor-Cal Compass (SF Bay area). You can send him your photos and ask him if it is worth repairing or not. It costs about 50% of a new replacment.

I had the same idea.
I'm now ordering from Viking Instruments who has been very helpful on the email and phone. He said the compass looks like a Sinto, Silva, or Plastimo which he does not recommend at all. All I need to do now is measure the outer flush-mounting ring and the diameter of the cutout itself. Looks like I will end up ordering the F-83 or F-83 Voyager made by Ritchie. Going to take the measurements this saturday, during prep!
I'm also concerned the screw holes won't match up and I'll have to drill some new ones, but that won't be a problem. I can post some pic's when its all done.

Thanks again.