Post-Installation Check; Bleeding The System - Raymarine E12171 Installation Manual

5. Post-installation check

Steering systems
Keep clear of moving steering systems at all times. Protect moving parts
from access during normal use.
Check the following points after installing the pump: Go to Next Page
1. Is the pump installed in such a way that hose lengths are kept to a minimum?
2. Is the pump secured to a substantial structure on the boat?
3. Have you connected a reservoir pipe between the helm pump and autopilot
pump?
4. Have you fitted check valves where appropriate?
5. Are the hydraulic pipes made of a suitable flexible material (i.e. rubber or
nylon) with a suitable pressure rating?
6. Are power cables correctly routed and securely connected to the course
computer or ACU?
You have now finished installing the pump. After installing the rest of the
autopilot you must bleed all air from the system (see below).
Note: When you have installed the entire autopilot system, you will also need to com-
plete an autopilot steering check. Refer to the control unit handbook for more details.

Bleeding the system

Bleeding the hydraulic system correctly is one of the most important steps when
installing the autopilot hydraulic pump. If there is any air in the system the
steering will feel unresponsive, particularly when you turn the wheel to hardover.
IMPORTANT: Any air in the hydraulic system will greatly reduce the
performance of the autopilot and the overall steering system. Fill the reservoir
before commencing.
Follow the helm pump manufacturer's instructions to fill the hydraulic hoses so
that the A, B & R hoses do not contain trapped air or air bubbles. The hose
connections to the pump may need to be loosened to allow air to escape. The
pump can now be run. Follow the set up instructions for your autopilot control
head. If the pump runs but the rudder does not move, use the autopilot control
head to initiate a course correction. This will start the pump. Manually turn the
helm wheel in the same direction as the course correction. This forces fluid into
the pump, displacing any residual air.
WARNING
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