Using Your Eps System; Before First Use; System Inspection - Dometic Optimus EPS Installation And User Manual

EN

3 Using Your EPS System

3.1 Before first use

Before operating your boat for the first time, take a few moments to:
• Familiarize yourself with the location and function of the steering system
components. Review the system overview in section 2 to learn about the
components and where to find them.
• Perform a system inspection as shown in section 3.1.1.
• Check the Electric Actuator installation for interference as shown in
section 3.1.2.
• Review section 4 to understand the different types of system faults, and
how the system handles them. Out on the water in the middle of a fault
condition is no time to learn the difference between a danger fault and a
warning fault.

System inspection

3.1.1
WARNING!
Failure to comply with these instructions may result in a loss of steering
control, which could lead to a collision and/or ejection from the boat,
causing property damage, personal injury, and/or death.
Inspect your steering system and engine controls before every use. For your
convenience, the inspection steps are summarized on the Quick Reference
Guide included in your document package. Always keep this card on your
boat. (Contact your dealer immediately if you do not have your QR Guide.)
Procedure:
1. Verify immediate steering response when turning steering wheel(s).
Turn the steering wheel slowly to port and starboard and make sure
the engine(s) follow the commands. Check at all helm stations.
2. Inspect all steering components, cables, and connections for wear,
kinking, and/or signs of damage.
Check the harness between the actuator and transom for any worn,
abraded, or cracked insulation, or any physical damage. Check that
the connector at the actuator is tight and properly secured. Check that
the fitting at the transom is hand tight, and that all harness bends are
smooth and gradual with no signs of kinking or twisting. Check that the
actuator shaft is free of mechanical damage or excessive wear.
3. Check for binding, loose, or worn steering components.
Check that the actuator and harness move freely without any snags or
hang-ups through the entire steering range. Actuator motion should be
smooth. Any jerkiness in the motion is a sign that something is wrong
and it should be checked. Check that the helm motion is smooth with
no mechanical play in the helm or wheel hub. Don't forget to check any
additional helm stations.
3-1