Operating Hints; Unsatisfactory Steering Performance - Raymarine Autohelm 6000 User Manual

5.0 OPERATING HINTS

continuously optimises automatic steering
performance eliminating the need for operator
supervision.
It is, however, very important to understand the
effect of sudden trim changes on steering
performance. When a sudden change in trim
occurs the automatic trim compensation system
requires approximately 20 seconds to apply the
necessary rudder off-set to restore the automatic
heading. In gusting conditions, therefore, the
course may tend to wander slightly, particularly in
the case of a sailing yacht with badly balanced
sails. In the latter case, a significant improvement
in course keeping can always be obtained by
improving sail balance. Bear in mind the following
important pojnts:-
reduce heeling and weather helm.
It is also advisable whenever possible to avoid
sailing with the wind dead astern in very strong
winds and large seas. Ideally, the wind should be
brought at least 30" away from a dead run and in
severe conditions it may be advisable to remove
the mainsail altogether and sail under boomed
only. Providing these simple precautions
are taken the autopilot will be able to maintain
competent control in gale force conditions.
It may be noticed that the autopilot tends to be
a little less stable on northerly headings in the
higher latitudes of the norther hemisphere (and
conversely southerly headings in the southern
hemisphere). This is caused by the increasing
angle of dip of the earth's magnetic field at higher
latitudes which has the effect of amplifying rudder
response on northerly headings. The tendency
towards northerly heading instability is usually
more obvious in higher speed craft and when it
occurs can be corrected by reducing the rudder
control setting.
Passage making under automatic pilot is a
very pleasant experience which can lead to the
temptation of relaxing permanent watch. This must
always be avoided no matter how clear the sea
may appear to be.
Remember, a large ship can travel two miles in
five minutes - just the time it takes to make a cup
of coffee!
PERFORMANCE
lf the Autohelm 6000 has been correctly
specified, installed in accordance with the
instructions and adjusted correctly it will
provide outstandingly good steering precision
over a very wide range of wind and sea
conditions.
If the performance falls below your
expectations and the pilot appears to be
working correctly the fault will normally be
found by carrying out the simple checks
outlined below. Before reporting your difficulties
to an Autohelm specialist, please check the
detailed in Sections 3.3 and 4.0 been
carried out correctly? Check again
an area free from large magnetic deviation?
If in doubt use a hand bearing compass to
check
magnetic influence been introduced near
the fluxgate compass? - anchor/chain/radio
equipment/loudspeaker/tools/AC.
etc.
l
Is battery voltage correct? 12~ or 24v
l
Are fuses intact and of correct rating?
connectors firmly tight
setting at course computer and control units
If vessel wanders under pilot control
size and type of vessel
ratio is correct for steering system of vessel
is correct
and actuator are of compatible type and
bleed system to remove air
generator