Auto Helm ST4000

[psjanker]

I finally got around to checking out the autopilot for my new to me (last Spring) Cape Dory 30B. I had checked it out while bringing her down from NYC to the Chesapeake and thought I needed a motor. Tearing it down I discovered bad planet gears in the gearbox as well as sheared pins (six) on the driveshaft.

Anybody know of a gearbox or a source of planet gears? I've heard that folks have had new gears made of brass that would certainly make the gearbox more robust. Recommendation for lubication? Old grease had become solid which I believe resulted in the failure. Recommend those that have an Auto Helm look at lubication as preventative maintenance.

Anyone ever have to replace pins on driveshaft? Do they unscrew from back? Suggestions for removing drift pin?

V/r

Pete

[psjanker]

Well from the general silence I concluded that a "repair" is not feasible...although I still think I might look for a 3D printer and at redoing the planetary gears in brass. What I did was go on the web and I found a gentleman in Hawaii that sold the head of a new out of the box ST 4000+, leaving just the wheel mechanism. For $200 plus shipping and PayPal fee it was mine. Got it on Tuesday and had it mounted by Wednesday evening. Did a quick test on the hard and it appears I have a functional autopilot.....be still my heart!

The ST 4000+ is backwards compatible with the ST 4000 and is really easy on the eyes I in that the look and feel is much improved. Sure beats paying $600 for one from Raymarine.

V/r

Pete