Hi,
My original Ritchie SP-5 compass cracked and the oil leaked out. Now, I purchased a replacement compass from Catalinadirect.com, but it turns out to be a Ritchie DNP-200 which is slightly smaller in diameter at 6-1/2" vs. 7-1/4".
The mounting holes line up perfectly, but about a 1/4" gap is left between the Edson pedestal and the compass, allowing water to enter the pedestal.
What compass should I have on this boat? My pedestal has the 6-7/8" diameter top.
According to Edson there is an adapter plate that can be purchased, or I could make something out of starboard.
Best Regards,
Karl-1985 Catalina 36
Karl,
If the compass doesn't fit, why not send it back to CD? For a LOT less than the cost of a new compass, you can have your old one rebuilt. Ask around your marina for or yacht club for the name of someone who does this locally. If I remember correctly, I had mine rebuilt with a new dome, new bellows, and new oil, for less than $200. I'm pretty sure that a new SP-5 is over $500. Just a thought.
Tom Sokoloski
C36/375IA Past Commodore
Noank, CT
Karl,
I just received my SP-5 compass back from Ritchie. For about $195 (including return shipping), I have what looks to be a brand new compass... they did a complete rebuild / refurbish job and the work was terrific. I would agree and recommend returning your recent purchase to CD and send your original compass back to Ritchie. The turnaround time was 2-3 weeks.
Stephen Kruse
Kruse Control #1428
1995 C-36 MKII SR/WK
Lake Lanier, Ga.
Thank you very much for this advise! The only problem is that CD will not let me return this compass. They claim it was special ordered. I even tried to exchange it for other parts.
I will have the old one rebuilt.
Regards,
Karl