Seiwa SW AP01 - Manual (Page 45)

CHAPTER 4 TROUBLE-SHOOTING
4.1 GENERAL
If no error messages are showing, but the performance of the autopilot is
unsatisfactory, experience suggests looking initially at four factors. The compass
heading should be steady. Small deviations in the heading will not cause performance
problems, but random changes in heading of more than a degree or two indicate a
defect in the compass performance. If a rate gyro is fitted and selected, two faults
indicate a defect in the gyro or its cable: either the heading displayed lags well behind
the actual heading or it starts increasing or decreasing steadily when the actual
heading is constant. Secondly, if the rudder transducer is not centred correctly or its
linkage is faulty, poor steering will result. Finally, free-play or backlash in the steering
drive will also cause steering problems.
4.2 ERROR MESSAGES
The SW AP01 system is programmed to provide a number of messages on its display
when a fault occurs. Some of these are warnings arising out of the way the autopilot is
being used. Others mean that a real problem has developed. A full list appears in Sec
2-6. Listed below are those messages for which a more detailed explanation is called
for. By using this as an aid, many problems can be fixed simply by the owner. If the
assistance of a Coursemaster agent is required, quoting the error message will
expedite repairs.
COMPASS FAULT