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You mention that the autopilot is not getting any data. I know that you can test the GPS for sending its data by connecting the yellow NMEA 0183 wire to the positive probe of a digital voltmeter, and the black to the negative probe, then watch the voltages change from 0 to about 6-8 volts as data rolls along. I haven't done that yet with the fluxgate compass, but I'm going to give it a try sometime. Other than a rudder position indicator, what else is input to your autopilot? Oh yeah, the control head in the cockpit. Look for some interruption in the data coming to the autopilot control that sends directions to the drive motor. Sorry I can't be more specific but I'm operating at the fringes of my knowledge and experience. Hope this helps. At a certain point, you might begin considering a new autopilot that integrates with your other electronics. Maybe, to act as a personal contribution to the international economic stimulus, and to increase the personal and economic value of your boat, you could rationalize this as a patriotic duty and then go sailing as a reward for such stalwart sacrifice.
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