I am having performance problems with my autopilot. Raymarine tells me the device is functioning properly, and my issue is likely the location of my Fluxgate compass. I have installed it on the wall between the waste tank and fuel tank in the aft compartment on my 2004 Hunter 33. Any folks out there with working St4000 Autopilots on Hunter 33s that could advise me on where their compass is installed?
Raymarine ST400+ Fluxgate Compass Location
- Thread starter Everett14920
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fluxgate location
On our 356 we installed it under the nav station, works fine there. Dealer originally tried in the aft locker and had issues with interference. you need to move it around, away from all ferrous metal, until you find a place that works
On our 356 we installed it under the nav station, works fine there. Dealer originally tried in the aft locker and had issues with interference. you need to move it around, away from all ferrous metal, until you find a place that works
Mine is
Right where you descibed - and I have a 2004 33 like you. I found that the *real* issue with poor performance of the ST4000+ is the fact that the autopilot really needs the optional gyroscope to detect when the boat is turning. The gyro will detect a direction change much quicker than the compass allowing the autopilot to react quicker. Without it I have never been able to use my autopilot in quatering seas. See: http://www.westmarine.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/ProductDisplay?storeId=10001&langId=-1&catalogId=10001&productId=71032&storeNum=&subdeptNum=&classNum=&disp=addon#relatedp
Right where you descibed - and I have a 2004 33 like you. I found that the *real* issue with poor performance of the ST4000+ is the fact that the autopilot really needs the optional gyroscope to detect when the boat is turning. The gyro will detect a direction change much quicker than the compass allowing the autopilot to react quicker. Without it I have never been able to use my autopilot in quatering seas. See: http://www.westmarine.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/ProductDisplay?storeId=10001&langId=-1&catalogId=10001&productId=71032&storeNum=&subdeptNum=&classNum=&disp=addon#relatedp
On Java I moved ours
This last spring while installing a bunch of other things. I remembered in previous years having probles with the autopilot not holding course sometimes. While I was in the rear transom locker I noted that the fluxgate was about half way up the bulkhead. I then placed it as low as I could phyiscal get it. After that the autopilot holds course much better and doesn't wander about. Remember the fluxgate should be as close as centerline as possible and as low in the boat as you can get it. Jim S/V Java
This last spring while installing a bunch of other things. I remembered in previous years having probles with the autopilot not holding course sometimes. While I was in the rear transom locker I noted that the fluxgate was about half way up the bulkhead. I then placed it as low as I could phyiscal get it. After that the autopilot holds course much better and doesn't wander about. Remember the fluxgate should be as close as centerline as possible and as low in the boat as you can get it. Jim S/V Java
Rudder poistioner
My problems went away when they sent me a rudder positioner. Not only does it work well, but it also gives you an indication of sail efficiency. If you have too much helm, adjusting the sails can take pressure off the rudder and autopilot.
My problems went away when they sent me a rudder positioner. Not only does it work well, but it also gives you an indication of sail efficiency. If you have too much helm, adjusting the sails can take pressure off the rudder and autopilot.
Trial and Error
I had problems too, and with a little help and patience, I finally found the spot. Interference from several sources; hot water heater, engine or any other electromagnetic force can interfere. I could tell I was having problems because the magnetic deviation was above 15 degrees. Also, locating the compass as close to water level as possible is very helpful. Good luck!
I had problems too, and with a little help and patience, I finally found the spot. Interference from several sources; hot water heater, engine or any other electromagnetic force can interfere. I could tell I was having problems because the magnetic deviation was above 15 degrees. Also, locating the compass as close to water level as possible is very helpful. Good luck!
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