Just bought C36 MKII last july, still learning. Autopilot has been working great, and i love it. Except it didn't work last time out with a No Rud Ref error in the screen.
I suppose likely the rudder reference sensor rotor is the problem, part M81105, i can get online for about 250
But seems sudden. I also stowed a pretty large extra anchor in the compartment, starboard side well by the helm, where all the ST6002 components are stored, the board, the rudder reference device, i suppose the flux magnet but i'm not certain i know where that is yet.
Is it possible i threw off the magnet? Will it come back or is this a permanent problem?
Does anyone have a copy of the Configuration Manual for ST6000 series?
Would you spend the money on the sensor or upgrade the system. I'm mostly daysailing at this point while i get used to the boat so no long trips until next year
thanks for ny advice
Bob Scott
You may have knocked one of the wires loose or damaged the link arm between the rudder post and the rudder sensor. Check to see if the sensor is moving when the rudder is turned, if it is then check the wires from the sensor to "brain box" of the Raymarine, one f the connectors may have gotten pulled loose when loading up the locker.
The sensor is a simple variable resistor, not much there to go wrong. If you put a multimeter on the two leads measuring resistance you'll see it change from one side to the other with no resistance in the middle.
Denis
Brazen Article #1925
2001 Catalina 36 MKII
Another possibility is that the rudder sensor is outputting a voltage outside of the range or the autopilot. This happened to me after upgrading my autopilot from a St5000 to a SPX-5. I had to make a board with a couple of trim potentiometers to limit the output into the usable range. It works great now. This is probably not your problem if it was working and all of a sudden stopped, but if you cycle power and it works and then you turn the wheel all the way to port or starboard and it loses the rudder reference, then it is your problem.
David
Mobile, AL
S/V Beach Belle
1983 Catalina 36 Mk I #154
Std. Rig, Fin Keel, M25