Interfacing GPS and Autohelm

[Bob E.]

Has anyone interfaced an Autohelm 4000 (the older model) with a Magellan GPS 2000 XL handheld GPS?

 

[John]

Looked into it

The problem with the older model 4000s is, as I understand it, an interface box is needed and a few years ago the price I was quoted was rather expensive. West Marine had a ST 4000 upgrade kit with NMEA 0183 interface capability for "only" 669.00 in their 95 catalog. Since the newer 4000s have a better fluxgate compass setup (can be mounted in the bilge) I decided to wait and buy a newer Autohelm, or equal, and save my old one for a backup. I'd be very curious what others have to say.On another Autohelm related item, a couple weeks ago my 4000 started slipping and wouldn't hold the course. I took it apart and found there is a shear pin in the small gear that did it's job - it sheared off. A replacement one is on order - have to buy "gear kit", P/N N014, to the tune of $17.95 + 5.00 handling + shipping. Autohelm's number is (800) 539-5539.

 

[Bob E.]

Too expensive for me

Thanks, John. I think I'll keep setting the Autohelm course manually!

 

[Allan Hadad]

Autohelm Fix

Too bad about the autohelm interface. I also have the older 4000. I wonder if someone out there could figure out how to use the input for the windvane (which I don't have) as the feed from the GPS. You could possibly "fool" the autopilot into thinking the cross track error from the GPS was changing apparent wind angle, with the resultant correction being applied by the autopilot. Something to think about.John, regarding the sheared pin, mine did that too. It was a plastic pin that was pushed in the handle to a flat spot on the little shaft that rotates the eccentric wheel to engage the belt. The pin either backs out or wears off. I went and bought a #4 set screw (that has a tiny hex wrench hole in one end. I drilled out the handle and tapped it with the #4 x 40 threads per inch and installed the screw. Tighten it up against the flat and 6 years later it still holds fine. I still have the second screw that came in the package. All for 40 cents. Good luck with your repair.Allan