Restoring compass on H31

[IH82BL8]

The fluid in the compass on our '84 H31 is cloudy and I'd like to replace it. I've removed the compass from the binnacle but I can't tell how to open it. It's a Saturn AquaMeter. I assume it's original to the boat. Has anyone else done this?

Thanks.

 

[Steve Dion]

Compass repair shop can make them look and work like new if it is worth repairing.

 

[Warren Milberg]

Are you sure the problem is the fluid and not the lens? I would first try a glass polish and see if that helps.

 

[IH82BL8]

It's the fluid. I can easily read the card. The fluid has turned a brownish color.

I'd prefer to do the work myself. If I were to pay someone to do it, I'd just buy a new compass.

 

[kloudie1]

I had a Saturn bulkhead mount several years ago and seem to remember that it was heat sealed so would not allow repair? Dunno.. These guys have the fluid:
lhttp://www.vikingcompass.com/compassoil.html
and some parts.. but not for Saturn, specifically..

Brown like this one? http://www.ebay.com/itm/Saturn-comp..._Accessories_Gear&hash=item3a639862a1&vxp=mtr

 

[IH82BL8]

Brown like this one?

Exactly. I guess I'll just live with it until I can replace it.

Thanks, all.

 

[Nelsonhow]

The binical compass on my 1983 hunter was yellow with age. It was a Richie. The cost to repair it was only $20 less than a new one and the repair didn't have A Guarantee. To me it was a no brainer. I replaced it with a new unit with a LED rather than the old incandescent bulb for night lighting.