DOCUMENT # 90021, REV4 MODEL 7000 GYRO OPERATION MANUAL-MAR09
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The spherical flywheel enclosure contains a vacuum to reduce drag on the flywheel and thus
create a more efficient gyro stabilizer. This vacuum “pressure” will rise very slowly over time to a
level where it may be necessary to evacuate the pressure from the enclosure. The controller
monitors this vacuum level and will indicate the vacuum level on the system display by showing
“Vacuum Leak” on the alarm page. If the value on the display is above 20 torr at ambient
temperature, it is recommended that the gyro be serviced to pump the vacuum level down to
Seakeeper specified levels. It is anticipated that vacuum service will only be needed once every
two years or longer. If it is suspected that the gyro will need vacuum service, contact
4.2
BRAKE MAINTENANCE
The hydraulic brake circuit is a “closed” circuit with no pump or reservoir therefore it is important
that no leaks go without repair. Some oil residue on brake cylinder rods and hydraulic fittings is
normal. More substantial drips or puddles should be traced and addressed. Most minor leaks can
be addressed by simply snugging up the hydraulic fittings. The leaks may have developed from
thermal expansion / contraction combined with normal boat operational vibrations. The
components that make up the brake and key inspection areas are noted in the below figure.
Regular inspections of the brake linkage and hydraulic system are recommended.
The system is designed to lock up the brake and coast the flywheel in the event the brake pressure
reaches a low pressure threshold in the brake manifold. The display will indicate “Low Brake
Pressure” on the alarms page of the gyro display.
This low pressure will be caused by loss of oil pre-charge pressure. Loss of oil pre-charge pressure
is caused by a leak or by a failure of one of the two accumulators located on the brake manifold.
