I have a
Simrad autopilot that is using an RPU160 reversible drive unit. Does anyone have experience with this unit?
The control
head reports Fail Actuator when it is engaged and the drive unit attempts to adjust the
rudder angle.
I have removed and cleaned the
brushes but that didn't change anything. I also hooked the
motor direct to the
battery but nothing happened. It seems pretty clear the
motor is fried.
The RPU160 consists of the valve body with the three hydraulic hoses attached and the
electric motor. The motor is attached to the valve body with two screws. A complete new
pump is running $800-1000. The
electric motor is less than $450.
The owners manual, section 6.1, indicates the motor can be removed from the valve body for
inspection. I spoke with a tech at
Simrad Robertson and he said removing the motor would cause hydraulic fluid to leak from the valve body. The manual says nothing about that.
Does anyone have experience with separating or servicing the two
parts of this unit? Any insight or
advice would be appreciated.
Thanks.
John