6.3 Initial sea trial. Raymarine autopilot ST4000+

81131_7.book Page 80 Wednesday, March 17, 2004 3:59 PM

80 ST4000+ Wheel & Tiller Autopilots: Owner’s Handbook

6.3 Initial sea trial

When you have checked that the system is functioning correctly, you must complete the setup by taking the boat on a short sea trial to:

• correct the compass deviation

• adjust the heading alignment

• check autopilot operation

• adjust the rudder gain

Note: The ST4000+ has built-in calibration so you can fine tune it to suit your boat, its steering system and its dynamic steering characteristics. So you can perform the initial sea trial, we calibrate the unit at the factory to provide safe and stable autopilot control for the majority of boats.

You should perform the initial sea trial:

• when you have successfully completed all of the installation, functional tests and rudder sensor checks

• before making any other changes to default calibration settings: check and, if necessary, reset the values to the recommended levels described in Chapter 7: Customizing the ST4000+

• in conditions of light wind and calm water, so you can assess autopilot performance without the influence of strong winds or large waves

• in waters that are clear of any obstructions

Note: You can return to hand steering at any time during the sea trial by disengaging the wheel drive clutch, or removing the tiller drive pushrod from the tiller pin.

EMC conformance

Always check the installation before going to sea to make sure that it is not affected by radio transmissions, engine starting etc.