Squeaky 4000

[BungalowBill]

This is my first boat with an Auto Helm 4000. It seems to hold a course just fine. I usually just use it for motoring. I have named it 'Amelia' because she was a pilot.

The only real problem is that she squeaks as she makes steering corrections. I know that somewhere in the inner-workings there is a belt and I have been hesitant to spray some lube into the unit for fear of making the belt slip. My questions are: Is this unit known for squeaking? Is this the sign of a belt starting to wear out? Is it OK to spray a little silcone spray to quiet the squeak?

Any help is greatly appreciated. Thanks in advance.

 

[walmsleyc]

I spray McLube or other silicone spray in mine all the time. The Belt is "toothed" to the drive motor, and friction to the wheel ring (when the cam is on). I've never had a problem with slippage. There are a number of guide wheels inside the thing that can certainly benefit from regular cleaning and lubrication and I would guess that these are what is seueaking. Oil or grease is bad because it will accumulate dirt, but McLube should be fine.

I suppose the motor could be squeaking somewhere, or the two halves of the belt casing could be rubbing and causing a squeak too, but I think that's less likely.

 

[kloudie1]

As Walmsley says, it is probably the little guide wheels. I think RayMarine says to flush it with a low flow of frresh water every now and then. I know you don't have salt where you are but you could have dirt and bugs.. Good Luck with it..
My 4000+ is named Otto Piloto..Otto is a great friend to have along ! He doesn't drink my beer !