When the autopilot in installed properly and is disengaged ( turned off) is there some resistance on the helm? I’ve had seven different sailboats boats over the years but all with tillers steering. I wanted to get a ST4000 one on my new sailboat, but I’ve really hated what I’ve felt so far. When in engaged they seem to work fine. Several sailboats I’ve sailed on lately with wheel autopilots also seem to squeak when the autopilot was off. Almost like it needs some oil. But it’s the resistance on the helm when turned off that I really dislike. Are there others out there that have the same problem?? Or are these just bad autopilots I've used ? Thanks, JOHN
Raymarine ST 4000
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is it fully disengaged?
The autopilot must be off (or in Standby) and the black friction arm on the wheel must be released. It's the black arm that run along the grey belt cover that's mounted to the wheel. If you're turning the wheel and can hear the autopilot motor turning, it's not fully disengaged. Also, check the wheel tension (friction) knob mounted on the side of the steering column. Mine is black plastic and it's a friction knob that adjusts the feel of the wheel. If my autopilot is fully disengaged and the friction knob is loose, my steering is almost TOO loose!! Hope this helps!! Jim S/V Jimmy Dreams
The autopilot must be off (or in Standby) and the black friction arm on the wheel must be released. It's the black arm that run along the grey belt cover that's mounted to the wheel. If you're turning the wheel and can hear the autopilot motor turning, it's not fully disengaged. Also, check the wheel tension (friction) knob mounted on the side of the steering column. Mine is black plastic and it's a friction knob that adjusts the feel of the wheel. If my autopilot is fully disengaged and the friction knob is loose, my steering is almost TOO loose!! Hope this helps!! Jim S/V Jimmy Dreams
RE: Autopilot Friction
The release lever attaches to the release mechanism by means of a rolled pin. There have been instances where this pin has broken, so even with the lever in the disengaged position the autopilot was still engaged. Should not be a problem with a new instalation, but someting to be aware. I agee with the other responses. With the friction off and autopilot disengaged the wheel can almost be too loose. If you are noticing binding problems, maybe the entire steering system needs to inspected.
The release lever attaches to the release mechanism by means of a rolled pin. There have been instances where this pin has broken, so even with the lever in the disengaged position the autopilot was still engaged. Should not be a problem with a new instalation, but someting to be aware. I agee with the other responses. With the friction off and autopilot disengaged the wheel can almost be too loose. If you are noticing binding problems, maybe the entire steering system needs to inspected.
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