Autopilot Question

[Jackman]

I have an old Robertson AP1000 autopilot installed on my boat from one of the original owners. It currently does not function as it should because of an issue with the rudder feedback mechanism (the small bar-like item with a ball on the end). It seems as though the ball part rusted off. Is this autopilot worth fixing? If so do any of you have a good source for replacement parts?

Also, if I was to replace this unit with a newer one what kind of "better" functionality" would I have over the current one in general?

Thanks

 

[ThirdHatt]

My boat came with a Robertson AP300X, installed by the previous owner back in 2001. I am not sure about the differences between these two models, but I have learned that Simrad/Robertson is one of the more respected names in autopilots. The more expenisve parts in the system are the gyro/compass, the motor that turns the rudder and the main control panel. The part that you are describing is simply to tell the autopilot the rudder position. Although it is an essential part that is required for the autopilot to function properly, I would think that this would be a relatively inexpensive part to replace. Give Simrad/Robertson tech help a call and they will walk you through different tests to help you isolate the problem. I had an alarm in my AP300X on a trip recently and they taught me how to diagnose and fix it while underway! Those guys in tech help are amazing.

New autopilots are quite expensive, so I would certainly do what I could to get this one working and see how you like using it. There are lots of parts sources on the internet for these autopilots due to their immense popularity. Do a google search for your part and see what comes up. GOOD LUCK!

 

[REBrueckner]

I'd call Robertson and ask a tech your question.
When I installed my autopilot myself about five years ago, they immediately answered a few questions I had.
The feedback mechanism is not expensive, so I'd be inclined to replace the part or the whol thing and give it a try. You can also supply 12v direct to the hydraulic pump if you need to assure its working. I think if you reverse polarity when testing, the pump will run in the reverse direction. If you are willing to try a few things yourself its very worthwhile to test the old system; if you have to pay yard rates, that may be another story....

 

[Jackman]

I talked with the Simrad/Robertson autopilot guy and he said that my unit was discontinued 10yrs ago! He can no longer get parts for it and suggested I look on ebay for the linear feedback part (LF 2500). Sounds like I may be up you know what creek on this one! I looked on ebay and found none.

If anyone has some old parts for a Robertson AP1000 lying around and the linear feedback part is still good let me know if you want to sell it.

Thanks,

Jack

 

[Avenger]

Perhaps a stupid question, but you refer to the "ball part" being rusted off. Is this a ball on the end of the lever that connects to the rudder linkage? Could the arm or ball be repaired or replaced without replacing the entire feedback unit?

 

[Jackman]

Scod,

That's my last resort. I know a couple of machinists and will see what can be done. I know this is definitely one of the issues. With my luck I'll get this part fixed and something else will not be working properly.

The guy did tell me if I had to buy new I could get a new AP16 for about 2k and use some of the original parts from the AP1000 to save a few bucks. Would be nice if I could find someone with and old unit for parts.

 

[SeaEric]

Ebay was going to be my advice. If you are persistent, you will find what you need there. It may not be there today, but it will show up. Ebay has been invaluable in finding older electronic parts. Likewise, when you replace something on your boat, list the old unit on ebay and sell it. Your throw away is someone else's savior.

 

[Avenger]

Yep, sounds like we've got the same luck. Did you check your manual to see if there's any diagnostic routines. Perhaps you can run through the setup procedure or a self test and just move the feedback by hand to see if it generates a signal. My autopilot is different than yours, but it has some procedures for that sort of thing, maybe yours does too. I'm only guessing but it's probably just a potentiometer, if you're handy with a multimeter you can check it out directly. Good Luck.

 

[Dustoff44]

Fixed the same thing on my 1971 Wood Freeman. That rusted part is readily available at most auto parts stores. It is carb/throttle body linkage. Get some new ball ends and some threaded rod and repair the part....IMHO

 

[Capten]

You might also try KWC Electronics out of Hampton, VA. They service all types of marine electronics and have a lot of used equipment and parts.

http://www.kwctronics.com/index.htm
757-723-1304

 

[Jackman]

Long story short, after calling KWC, (very nice people), they were able to get what they thought was the correct part number for the replacement for my linear feedback linkage, but they weren't sure so they had me call a number to verify, but it just happened to be the simrad folks again. I gave them the part number and they gave me a description of the part. Sounded like the correct part. They also would only charge me $65 for the part.

So Scrod if you need the linkage and I end up getting the correct part, which I will let you all know, I'll forward you the info if you need it.

Thanks! Maybe soon I'll actually have autopilot of some sort!