Simrad wp32

[admorton]

I recently acquired a used Simrad WP32. I just got around to installing it and testing it. When I purchased it I assumed it was in working condition. I installed and operated it in accordance with the manual I obtained online. I have not been able to get it to work properly. When tested under motor power, when engaged, it violently swings the heading 10 or 15 degrees to port then back through center to starboard the same amount. It continues to do this multiple times until the alarm signal goes on. Sometimes, after several cycles back and forth, it stays in the turning position and steers the boat in a circle. This behavior leads me to think the Scaling factor is set wrong, but I have checked it and rechecked it and it is set right for my wheel turns lock to lock (little more that 1 turn lock to lock, setting of 2). I have also adjusted the Gain, with no success. I have not run through the internal compass calibration process, could this be causing my problem? I am hoping someone out there has this product and might have some clue as to how to correct this problem. or have I bought a defective unit???

Dean

 

[Steve Dion]

Have you done the initial orientation? I do not remember how to do it but it may be the problem.

You did mention that you had the manual.

Also be sure you do not have any magnetic fields near the control head (like speakers)

 

[Ken Cross]

On our previous boat the TP10 autopilot didn't like my cell phone near and that's how it behaved until I moved the phone.
Ken

 

[Stu Jackson]

Check the "gain" setting. The slower it is the smoother it will track. Every single ap has this adjustable feature. Except the "dial" ones, way old ones.

We used it just this past week on a trip down the N. California coast. Lumpy seas, no wind.

Set the gain to minimal and the ap was silent.

Set the gain higher when we entered busy SF Bay so it would respond quickly. Set way high? Nonsense, over steered like crazy.

RFTM, again?