Linear drive alarm

[rastamon]

I have a Raymarine AP system with linear drive. Just recently I'm getting an alarm "over current" and motor stalled. Anyone had the same issue and troubleshooting ideas? I'm in the Abacos with not much help over here.

[Paul L]

First shot is to check all the wiring and connections. A low voltage input to the AP can cause this.

[transmitterdan]

Look for corroded connections. Also look at the cable for a crack in the insulation. Water may have gotten inside.

Check manual steering to be sure the rudder turns freely.

It's possible the linear drive has worn out. Rebuilding is possible but non-trivial. I seem to recall another thread here on CF where an intrepid sailor rebuilt one of these.

[skipmac]

I second the recommendation to check all the wiring and connections first. One reason, it's a very likely cause, another reason, always try the easy stuff first.

Next easy test, disconnect the motor from the quadrant, unplug the connectors from the brain to the motor and hot wire the motor directly to the battery, then reverse the connections to see if the drive will move in and out. Listen for any grinding noises, jerky motion or whatever.

If the wiring is good, voltages good and the motor works then could be the brain box.

I did have to rebuild my linear drive. PO left a port open and it leaked into the motor and rusted up the bearings. Wasn't really that complicated if you've disassembled an electric motor. If you do this check the bearings and the brushes. If either are bad you can probably make them good enough to get you home with a little lube and work on the bearings and/or fine sanding polishing on the brushes.