Raytheon 650 Autopilot problem

[Ray 40]

I am out cruising in the San Juan Islands an am having a auto pilot problem.
When in the 'Auto' mode I get a 'low battery' alert. The manual says that with this alert to check my batteries.
Where would I start....I know my batteries ( house and starting) are good.
I won't be back in where I can get professional help for a week or so....any ideas????

The unit does fire up and is OK in 'Standby'- giving me rudder angle etc. - when switched to 'auto' starts beeping and showing 'lo bat' on screen- also creates static on VHF which clears up when power to pilot is turned off.

Not the end of the world (or my Cruise!) but welcome any 'fix' ideas while I'm out on the water.


Thanks,
Bud

 

[Aguyindallas]

I know zero about auto pilot systems, but have to ask....is there some sort of built in, on board battery in the actual auto pilot unit that has gone bad or due for replacement?

 

[Aguyindallas]

I found the guide online and it says the alarm will indicate if The voltage drops below 11.2 volts on 12v systems and Below 21 volts on a 24v system.

I would start by checking and cleaning any connections. Perhaps some corrosion is causing some resistance and causing the low reading?

 

[Ray 40]

Thanks for the input.
I'll clean up connections today.