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FROM THE NAV STATION
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I usually like to get these RODE SHOW's out early in the morning. Today, I wasn't near my computer -- until now. Kathy and I went to Beaver Island this past weekend, and we just got home this afternoon. RODE SHOW's are still in the top-20 countdown for the Mac Solo. This is lucky step number 13 and also 13 lucky weeks to go!
Step #13 - Evaluate Your Autopilot & Steering System
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The previous step (Step #14) in the countdown for the Mac-Solo stated that the reason listed most often for pulling out of the Mac Solo is electrical failure. Let's second-guess that for a moment. Consider your back-ups in the event of an electrical failure: VHF Radio - use your handheld VHF. Running lights - use your spare running lights. GPS - use your handheld GPS or even dead reckon! Cabin lights - use a flashlight. Autopilot - uh-oh, no back-up for the autopilot. (Of course, some autopilots are 100% mechanical and they do not require battery power.) However, the bottom line is the same - if you lose your autopilot, it will be difficult to complete the Mac-Solo.
Take the time to inspect your autopilot now. If a portion of your system has electronics that are exposed to the elements in your cockpit, you have some vulnerability here. If you can, open up your electronics enclosure. (Make sure you don't void your warrantee!) Take a close look for water stains or even water damage. If the damage looks significant, send the unit into the manufacturer to ensure its reliability. Inspect the o-ring seal. Make sure that it does not have any imperfections. Clean any staining or crud from the sealing surfaces and from the o-ring itself. Lubricate the o-ring with a thin film of silicone grease, and carefully reassemble.
Inspect your electrical cable. Read your owner's manual to make sure that your power supply cable is the correct size. Ensure that your terminations are firm. Re-do the terminations if necessary. Locate the fuse for your autopilot. (There had better be one!) Make sure that it is the correct amperage by comparing to the owners manual. Go to Radio Shack and buy a spare fuse!
Inspect the linkage between the autopilot and your tiller, wheel or quadrant. Make sure the connection points are still firm. If you have a wheel and your connection is via a drive belt, convince yourself that the belt is as good as new! And what the heck - buy a spare belt.
Disconnect your autopilot, and manually operate your steering system so that the rudder swings to its port & starboard endpoints. It should move easily - especially if you're still in the cradle. If you hear squeaks, that's the indication of the start of problems. Squeaks mean that there is resistance working in your steering system against your autopilot. Get some grease to the squeaky spot! (That's easier said than done!!) If you have a wheel, inspect the entire linkage. Chain & sprocket mechanisms should have a thin film of lubricant. Inspect your drive cable around the quadrant. Ensure there are no burrs in the cable. The cable should be moderately tight.
I can tell that I am beginning to ramble! If you are asking, "Gee, Nuge!!! Do you expect me to check everything??" The answer to that one is a clear, "Yes!" You can't afford to have your autopilot quit on the Mac Solo - it's your crew! As any seasoned skipper knows, you've gotta take care of your crew! The last thing that you want is a mutiny on your hands!!
See ya next week!
Patrick Nugent