VHF Installation Problem

May 27, 2010
58
Hunter 38 Virginia Beach, VA
Finally decided to update the VHF on our 2005 Hunter 38 to one with AIS capabilities (SH GX2150). As with most projects, in replacing something, I've created problems! The old VHF (ICOM) had a jack that entered into the NMEA port on the raymarine computer (output side). Hooked up the new VHF (right now just functions as a VHF) and low and behold, my autopilot not only does not work, but will only get power if the GPS is on and the chartplotter on (???). Did not hook up the two wires to the VHF but can't for the life of me imagine why that would make a difference. In the past, I could simply turn on the autopilot from the electrical panel (without the GPS on) and the autopilot would function as advertised. Any advice or obvious reasons?

On the second note - if anyone has updated to a similar VHF (AIS receive only) and could shine some light on wire placement - NMEA input/output seem pretty straightforward, but the AIS wires aren't nearly as clear - I would appreciate it. Our system is original issue - C80 chartplotter.
 
Last edited:
Jun 6, 2006
6,990
currently boatless wishing Harrington Harbor North, MD
The AP can get power from two places, the dedicated power connection (supplies the current for the motor BTW) and through the sea talk connection to other instruments. sounds like the dedicated power connection got dropped and only seatalk is providing power. Seatalk is not designed to drive motors BTW so the first thing I'd check is the dedicated power wire (and ground) at the AP master control computer, not the control head on the helm the control computer that has all the wires that control the AP motor. Bet that you disconnected its power (or ground) when you hooked up the VHF. Good luck