Maintenance
Steering Actuator Routine Maintenance and Storage Information
To keep the autopilot functioning properly, you must perform routine maintenance to the steering actuator
throughout the boating season, and you must take precautions when storing the boat for the off-season.
NOTICE
You must use white lithium grease when lubricating the steering actuator in the tilt tube. Any other type of
grease may harden and cause the actuator to seize.
• Once or more per season (depending on use), you should remove the steering actuator from the tilt tube and
complete these actions:
◦
Clean the push rod on the steering actuator to remove all grease and rust.
◦
Clean the inside of the tilt tube to remove all grease and rust.
◦
Clean the cable connectors, and re-apply dielectric grease to remove and prevent corrosion.
NOTICE
After cleaning the steering actuator and tilt tube, you must apply white lithium grease to the push rod on the
steering actuator before re-installing it in the tilt tube. White lithium grease helps prevent corrosion, and is
required to keep the autopilot functioning properly.
• When you store the boat for the off-season, you should complete these actions:
◦
Turn the motor fully to one side so the push rod on the steering actuator is fully extended out of the tilt
tube.
◦
Clean the extended push rod, and cover it with white lithium grease.
Freeing a Seized Steering Actuator
NOTICE
If the steering actuator becomes stuck inside the tilt tube, you must not attempt to force the steering actuator
with the outboard tiller or with a hammer. Forcing the steering actuator with the tiller or with a hammer may
damage the motor, the push rod, or the tilt tube.
1 Remove the linkage pin from the end of the push rod on the steering actuator.
2 Place a screwdriver or other suitable rod through the hole at the end of the steering actuator.
3 Carefully rotate the push rod using the screwdriver until it loosens and is no longer stuck in the tilt tube.
4 Remove the steering actuator from the tilt tube.
5 Using solvent and a wire bore brush, clean the inside of the tilt tube.
6 Using solvent and a rag, clean the push rod on the steering actuator.
7 Apply white lithium grease to the push rod, and re-install the steering actuator.
Replacement Parts
Replacement parts are available for this autopilot system. Contact your Garmin dealer or go to
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