ST4000+ Installation Tips

[Phil D.]

I'm about to install the ST4000+ on my 1998 Hunter 280. Directions seem straight forward. Has anyone had any problems with installation? Anything in particular I should be aware of? I've never done any onboard wiring before and I'm a little leery of the whole thing. Thanks!

 

[steve B]

not hard

I installed an ST4000 three weeks ago on my 1991 30T. It wasn't difficult, just time consuming. I Had to add a 3 breaker circuit panel so I could have a designated circuit for the autopilot. This was very easy. Finding the location for it was the hardest part. I fixed the fluxgate compass on the port side just under the nav station as close to center as possible. Ran the wire to the port cockpit locker where I mounted the display. I dont have a full length pedestal gaurd, so I had to drill a small hole in the pedestal and run the wire down following the throttle/gear cables. Had to remove the pedestal to do this. Used a small grommet that I bought at West Marine to attach to the hole I made in the pedestal and the wire from the wheel runs through it. All in all, it took about 8 hours.

 

[jim oursler]

Autopilot installation tips

1. pay attention to wire size for the wire length. Don't skimp on gauge or you'll have sporadic operating problems. BE certain to properly fuse it. 2. With ST 4000 you might give the good folks a Raymarine a call and get the nominal settings for your boat. They have a good body of knoowledge as to what makes most boats sail well. 3. Keeping the Sensor away from metal and near centerline of boat and all the other sensor instructions is vital. 4. Set for your latitude.5. The calibration say turn slow, slow, slow... better believe it.6. Location of instrument head is important for ease of reach.7. Don't turn the wheel with autopilot engaged.. puts stress on mechanism.8. Performance is better into wind than running. 9. Mine broke after 2 years.. a small wheel inside broke off in a storm and periodically/randomly locked up the steering. You will find that you can pop apart the 12 diameter wheel and fix by installing a long screw, with no cosmetic problems and much better integrity than a new pars. .. call me if you get to that point.. otherwise.. its a big $$$ fix. jim 214 244 5239.LASTLY.... I love my Autohelm.. You will not regret it. It is even more fun if you integrate it with a wind sensor. One last thought.. you can run below for a beer, but don't plan on staying below for an afternoon delight.. Doesn't take another boat long to show up on your bow.