Raytheon Instrumentation Problems

[John Huff]

I have tried getting in touch with Raytheon and have not had any luck, I’m wondering if anyone has had similar instrumentation problems? I have the following instruments on my 1992 Hunter 33.5:ST50 TriData & RepeaterST50 Wind&Close Hauled/VMG w/True WindThe Speed instrument is not accurate. It reads ~1-1.5 kts slow. I have taken into account current, wind, cleanliness of the paddle wheel, etc. I am wondering if there is a way to calibrate the sensor or if the paddle wheel and pin need to be replaced?The wind instrument started off by never holding the cal on the wind direction. Now the direction needle just very slowly rotates around the dial continuously. Also the wind speed seems to max out at 7-9 kts. The wind vane and paddle wheel on the top of the mast appear to be working fine and no different then it has in the past.Any feedback would be appreciated.

 

[Miles]

Adjustments

I've got the same package and there are adjustments on both instruments. I don't have the owners manuals with me but details are in there, you can also call Raytheon tech support. Basically you enter a factor like 1.25 to calibrate the speed gauge. Call their tech support at (603)881-5200. I talked to them a few days ago and they were very helpfull. Good luck!

 

[Larry Watkins]

Raytheon/Autohelm instruments

John; I have ST50 instruments on my '94 Beneteau 40 and have much trouble with them. I spoke with a tech. in New Hampshire and he said the knot log has a known software bug in and it can not be calibrated in the auto or manual mode. The best way is to match it to a GPS on several different courses and get an average. Your wind indicator sounds like mine. Check the masthead fly with a pair of binoculars and you might find the "feather" on the pointer is broken off, causing wayward readings. West Marine has replacements.Good luck.Larry

 

[Ron]

Raytheon bugs

Contact Raytheon Marine (www.raymarine.com) about checking the instrument firmware (i.e., the computer chip program embedded into the instrument) version number. They may have made a "bug-fix" in a later firmware release that you could get installed.Also, that website has the manuals for many of their instruments. You could download & print them fairly easily.--Ron