For a few months now I've encountered an odd issue with my auto pilot system. The control unit is a standard
Raymarine.
Steering is connected to a custom-made chain-quadrant, driven by a Yaskawa brand 12v servo (?)
motor.
The issue is this: Leave the
boat for a few weeks, come back to it, the auto pilot servo is engaged,
steering at the
wheel is locked-out.
Temporary solution: Turn on
power to the
boat, toggle auto pilot
power (hitting auto/manual on the control interface), and wiggle the
wheel - the servo will eventually disengage. This can take 5~10 minutes - wouldn't want to try this during an
emergency where steering is required ASAP!
(I am thankful I always check steering before backing out of my slip! So is the guy who owns the
catamaran parked behind me!)
My question for you all... I would like to understand how/why a mechanism that requires 12v to engage would mysteriously engage when sitting idle without any power applied.
My slip is not atop an ancient indian burial ground.
I don't suspect this is an issue with anything other than the innards of the servo
motor. The motor (and system) were installed by the boat's previous owner. He told me these motors, "...are frequently found being used for auto pilots on Japanese
fishing boats." There are four wires going into the motor - 12v +/- and two wires for servo control signal from the
autopilot brain.
The motor looks something like this:
Which appears to be a "print motor."
Anyone have experience with this sort of thing? Suggests on diagnosing and troubleshooting the issue?
Unless advised to the contrary, I'm hoping to open up the motor and see if it might just need
cleaning in-and-around the engaging mechanism.
Thanks, in advanced for any feedback or advice!