replacement autopilot

[crieders]

My 20 year old autohelm autopilot sometimes without warning will let go and I have to reengage the lever. Is that repairable or is it time for a change. Whats the replacement unit and how difficult is replacement. Can I use the same wiring and display unit?

[Stu Jackson]

Cliff, it would be helpful if you mentioned the model you have.  We have an ST3000, the one with the "rubber band" belt with the motor below on the pedestal.  Others have the "newer" ST4000 with the belt encased in the wheel ring.  20 years ago there were a lot more different models available than there are today, so we have no clue what it is you may have on your boat.

[Analgesic]

I suspect I have the same model and it has been doing the same thing for a couple of years.  I found that a short loop of shock cord with a hook on one end could be rigged to hold the lever in place.  It has stood up through some steering through rougher than average conditions and it certainly fits the budget until I can replace the whole unit. 

[crieders]

it must be the ST4000 since its the encased variety.

[Stu Jackson]

Cliff,

One of the many hits on "st4000" is this one:  http://c34.org/bbs/index.php/topic,2908.0.html

I recall someone recently also posted a picture of how to deal with wheel components, but maybe could be a newer model unit.

[markr]

Replaced my autohelm 3000, that was slipping on the drive wheel, with a below decks raymarine linear drive:

http://c34.org/bbs/index.php/topic,5518.msg34324.html#msg34324

Could not be happier! If you have other raymarine components, such as my bottom of the range A50, you can use NMEA to network your autopilot to the chartplotter. I can now sail a course, or a track, or a series of waypoints. If I installed a raymarine wind instrument/tridata, I would be able to sail a wind angle.

Cool.

[Stu Jackson]

Cliff, do a search on "cpt" and you'll find this, among others:  http://c34.org/bbs/index.php/topic,5401.0.html