Raypilot 650

[barlow]

Im having issues with my Autopilot. It tends to wander abit excessively at times when there is a little wind or sea.

NZ agents dont want to know about such "old electronics" but tell me that either the fluxgate compass has an issue (which I suspect as the heading does not make sense always) or the course computer has issues.

Does anyone know whether or not its worth persevering with or is replacement the only viable alternative...?

Secondly are parts available...?

Comments appreciated.

 

[fwebster]

Here are some guesses and a suggestion.

First, the suggestion: Try resetting all the AP set up parameters to factory default settings, then recommission the AP. Perhaps something has changed and t he AP is reacting to settings that no longer fit the boat and your operation. For example, the rudder input is usually proportional to the speed of t he boat. If the AP has somehow lost that input or has changed that input to a fixed speed, then it will steer sluggishly at some speeds and over steer at others.


And, the guess: I doubt you will find a repair center with parts for older Raymarine electronics because Raymarine has changed circuit board vendors and owners since 1997. However, changing AP's is expensive. Changing only part of the system can be a very frustrating process unless you replace all of the system. In other words, try your best to make what you have work, unless you plan to keep the 450 for a long enough period of time to warrant the investment in a new AP system.

 

[barlow]

Thanks for the input Frank, I was afraid you were going to say that.

 

[tc410]

My guess it has little or nothing to do with your 650 head unit but more likely your control unit. You could start by looking for a course computer on eBay (after you get the model number off the one you have now). From there, it would be the same advice for the fluxgate and rudder sensor. BUT first do the resets as Frank suggests!!

 

[barlow]

Frank can you tell me where the fluxgate compass is located please.....stand down Ive found the answer in an email from you in 2012. Thanks.

 

[fwebster]

Steve,

In the 90's, when Sea Ray used several different navigation/electronic brands, the AP's were installed either at the factory by vendors, not Sea Ray, or at the dealer by a local electronics technician. for that reason, there is no standard location on the 450DA. Mine happens to be behind the side wall in the cockpit, about behind the curve in the aft facing seat behind t he helm.

Sorry I'm not more help on this one.