Checking Autopilot Operation - Raymarine P70 Installation Instructions Manual

5.8 Checking autopilot operation

After completing calibration, check the basic autopilot operation,
as follows:
1. Steer onto a compass heading and hold a steady course at
normal cruising speed. If necessary, steer the vessel manually
for a short time to check how the vessel steers.
2. Ensure it is safe to engage the autopilot, then press AUTO
to lock onto the current heading. The autopilot should hold a
constant heading in calm sea conditions.
3. Use -1, +1, -10 and +10 or the ROTARY controller, to see how
the SmartPilot alters the course to port and starboard.
4. Press STANDBY to return to manual steering.
Checking rudder gain
To determine whether the rudder gain is set correctly, carry out the
following test:
1
System checks
2
3
D12107-1
Item
1.
2.
3.
1. Ensure you have set the autopilot response to level 5.
2. Drive your vessel at a typical cruising speed in clear water.
It is easier to recognize the steering response in calm
sea conditions where wave action does not mask steering
performance.
3. Press AUTO to enter Auto mode, then alter course by 40°:
• This course change should result in a crisp turn followed by
an overshoot of no more than 5°, If the rudder gain is adjusted
correctly.
• If the course change causes a distinct overshoot (more than
5°) and/or there is a distinct 'S' in the course the rudder gain
is too high.
• If the vessel's performance is sluggish and it takes a long
time to make the 40° turn, with no overshoot the rudder gain
is too low.
If necessary, adjust the rudder gain.
Checking counter rudder
Counter rudder is the amount of rudder your autopilot applies to
try to prevent your vessel from veering off course. Higher counter
rudder settings result in more rudder being applied.
To check the counter rudder setting:
1. Ensure you have set the autopilot response to level 5.
2. Drive your vessel at a typical cruising speed in clear water.
Description
Rudder gain too low
Rudder gain too High
Correct rudder gain
45