On two boats I have owned (including my present C36) with a Ritchie compass, when the boat is 10 years old, the compass develops a bubble. The repair shop in Elgin, IL refurbished the compass with a new diaphram and fluid. He made me promise to remove the compass every winter stating the extreme temperature extremes from the summer to the January low causes the diaphram to fail over time. I am sorry to say I have not removed the compass. Does anyone do that and found that it last longer?
—
Richard
1994 C36 Tall Rig M1.5
Waukegan Harbor
Lake Michigan
I have owned and stored boats for 30 years an have never taken any thing off the boat and have had no trouble with any gear.
Paul Mulrenin
Portsmouh Rhode Island
#2074
Richard,
I had my Ritchie compass refurbuished by Richie earlier this year. They told me that my bubble developed because the globe was crazed and the liquid was evaporating through the crazed globe. As long as the globe is intact the compass should be able to handle the temperatures ranges.
Ralph
Still a Thrill # 765
WK, STD Rig
Lake Texoma, TX
I had mine refurbished this year as well. Cost $200 but it is all shiny, has a new globe and neat red led light. I wasn't asked to remove the compass in winter but then again, extreme winter here is about 40 degrees. :p
When not in use the whole pedestal is under a Navy Blue Sunbrella cover.
Bill
s/v Lucky
1984 MK I Hull #266
San Antonio, Texas