Raymarine Autohelm 100, Install Manual

Page: 80 / 109

Chapter 3: Functional Test 79
3.8 Mechanical Test (Stern Drive)
It is recommended that the Auto Release facility is used when a Autohelm
mechanical stern drive actuator is installed. This should be switched on in
calibration.
1. Manually drive the steering hardover to starboard
2. With the engines running, engage Auto and, with repeated presses of
the -10 degree key, drive the steering to the opposite lock (port).
3. The autopilot should drive the steering onto the end stops, sound an
alarm, display the 'Release' message and then revert to 'Standby'.
4. Re-engage the autopilot (Auto) and repeat the driving the steering
hardover to starboard using the +10 degree key.
5. The autopilot should again drive onto the end stop, sound an alarm,
display 'Release' and return to 'Standby'.
Note: If the unit sounds the alarm and displays Release before reaching
the opposite lock, carefully check the vessel’s steering system for any
stiffness or mechanical jamming.
If the condition persists, set the Auto Release function to “off” (0) in
calibration and contact the Product Support Department at Autohelm for
further advice.
Note:
The Auto Release function should always be set to “off” (0) in
calibration if using any drive unit other than a stern drive actuator.
3.9 Setting the Autopilot Rudder Limit (All drives)
Having checked the correct functioning of the drive unit and the appropri-
ate End Stop Cutout/Auto Release function the programmable rudder
angle unit should be set.
The rudder angle limit sets the maximum angle to which the autopilot will
move the rudder. This should be set to just less than the vessel’s mechani-
cal limit stop to avoid putting the steering system under unnecessary load.
Using the rudder angle display whilst manually moving the helm, record
maximum rudder angle in both directions. Set up the rudder angle limit in
calibration mode (see page 82) to 5 degrees less than the minimum angle
recorded.