Auto Pilot probs

[jekyl]

My Simrad AP11 is not working and the screen has the wording

"ACTUATOR FAIL "

I have looked for loose or broken connections and can't seem to find any. I presume the actuator is the small black plastic box (with compass rose on the top) mounted under the helm floor inspection plate, centerline.

Any ideas suggestions and if I need to replace this item are they readily available and about how much?

 

[megabytes]

That sounds like the fluxgate compass. I believe the ACTUATOR is part of the pump system. Here is some info from the AP11 manual.

ACTUATOR Drive unit failure Check connections to drive unit motor
and clutch or bypass valve. Verify that
motor is running, and the clutch or
bypass clicks in and out. Also check that
the mechanical or hydraulic hand
steering works properly and that the
rudder moves smoothly. Consult the
drive unit manual.

 

[gerrys]

I think actuator failure refers to the rudder (motor) position sensor, probably the most common source of failure.

 

[walt bowen]

I have the ap11 and didn't have the manual, but simrad has a great site you can go to and download and print the entire thing. Its a lot but it has trouble shooting and other good info.

Walt Bowen
01 263 chase
200 hpdi's