More Autohelm settings - ST4000 question

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Bob England

I have an older Autohelm model ST4000, the type without any display and an integral flux gate compass. It has a sensitivity setting knob, labelled "Rudder". The boat ('89 H30) has wheel steering that requires only about 1-1/4 turns lock to lock. With the "rudder" knob set at the first position (max counterclockwise) the autopilot steers the boat on a slightly zig-zag course, even under power. If I increase the "rudder" setting progressively (rotating it clockwise click by click), the boat's course becomes progressively more and more erratic, eventually becomming so bad that it would go around in circles with the wheel spinning madly back and forth! So, I am forced to use the least sensitive setting and put up with the moderate instability. Does anyone know if there is an internal adjustment that can decrease the overall sensitivity of this unit? My theory is that the unit is designed for a wheel that has a higher "gear ratio" and takes more turns to go lock to lock. Is there another explanation? Thanks for any help. Bob England
 
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