ST4000 Reliability

[sailmaui]

I've been using a raymarine st4000 autopilot for several years now. The wheel units don't even last a season. The lever used to engage the clutch begins to release by itself. I'm told the belt needs tightening and that i should return it for factory service. Last time i did that they sold me a new unit. Also, the nylon/plastic lever has a flat spot in it that mates with the flat side of a steel pin. Of course the lever hole becomes elongated. Is anyone else having these problems?? (and yes the pin protruding from the pedistal is sized correctly)I have emailed Raymarine Customer Support about the reliability of these units and they have been unable to comment. I'd really like to hear from others about the reliability of these units.They did reply and tell me to fix it with a spanner wrench using a rear access port on the unit. Why isn't this listed in the owners manual?Please help this disatisfied customer begin the healing process. I'm still in the anger stage, hope to move to the acceptance stage soon.

 

[Ed]

Clutch Repair-Autohelm 4000

Had same problem. Took it to local shop. Replaced rollers. Total cost $97. $75 labor $22 parts. No problems since. Good luck.

 

[Vega]

Same problem

I had the same problem. They have changed (under warranty) the problematic piece. After some time the problem returned. You can tighten the system (little plastic piece on the back of the wheel, with a screw in the midlle) but I have the feeling that way the system is making too much force.Finally I have chosen to loose the system again and put a strong rubber to maintain the piece in place.5000mi later it still works allright.But that is not my problem. My problem is that sometimes the system goes mad and the boat makes a full 180º turn. It happens rarely, (only five or six times in three years) but it is quite scary, even dangerous. Has it ever happened to you, or to anybody ?

 

[Monty Miller]

ST4000 Plus MKII

Same problem. Raymarine told me to clean the wheels inside because spiders etc. will cause the belt to bind. Worked for awhile then it happened again while docking and I almost hit a couple of boats. Raymarine then told me that the clutch needed to be adjusted and only they could it. Not wanting to loose steering again I chose to replace the old 4000 wheel unit with the new Plus MKII unit which mated with the old 4000 system perfectly. It is a totally redesigned unit with a user adjustable clutch. It has worked flawlessly and cost about $400. Beware that the MK motor housing is wider and is offset about a half inch from the old one. Anyone want my old one?