Autopilot control

[twinboat]

I have a Wagner Autopilot that has relays in the control box mounted to the pump. There are 2 SPDT relays used to reverse the motor. After about a year of full time cruising the N.C. points burn down to nothing and the N.O. points start sticking, causing me to make U turns. There is also 2, 5 UF capacitors in the circuit between the relays and the motor.

I keep a spare set of relays for a quick change while circling ( not really ), but do capacitors go bad? and what about using solid state relays. I havent been able to locate the same type of capacitors.

Roger

[Sailmonkey]

Capacitors can and do go bad, and they're easy to check with the correct multimeter.

Here's a listing with over 1600 solid state relays.....surely something is bound to be able to be re-purposed to your autopilot?!?

Relays | Solid State Relays | Product Catalog Search Results | Galco Industrial Electronics

[Cheechako]

I had the same problem with my Wood-freeman AP. Points would have to be adjusted cleaned up often. Cant remember but I think they replaced the caps once too. Caps do go bad, especially if they are old Electrolytics. If you replace them and if they are fairly low voltage, no harm in going higher voltage on caps... and you get a more robust cap.

[NoTies]

Yep, caps go bad and they are there to stop contact points burning.