Capt Kangeroo
Senior Member
Does anybody have any thoughts on the following problem?
My system is a Robertson autopilot with reversing pump steering control connected to Capilano 3 line steering helms. (Mine utilizes the return line to the uniflow valve)
Forgive my long winded explanation, I've tried to include all relevant info in the event it may help with a diagnosis. The problem is: If I turn the rudder to starboard or port using the autopilot pump controls, then immediately try to return the rudder to center by turning the "wheel" in the opposite direction it takes 2 or 3 complete turns of the wheel for the rudders to start moving. However, if I turn the wheel in the same direction as the pump was turning it, the rudders respond to the wheel normally.
OBSERVATIONS
- If I let it sit for a minute without touching the wheel or pilot controls, the rudder responds to the wheel normally in both directions.
- If I let it sit for a couple of days, the wheel turns with no resistance and must be turned back & forth a couple of times before it starts engaging the rudders. Same thing with the autopilot pump, it runs for a good minute before the rudders start moving. After that it behaves as above.
-When I bleed the system & top up the reservoir at the upper helm, when I come back to it after awhile & turn the wheel, oil floods out the plug/ air bleed on top of the reservoir as if it was overfilled. (Don't think overfilling is possible, it is either full or not I would guess)
Any thoughts or suggestions greatly appreciated.
My system is a Robertson autopilot with reversing pump steering control connected to Capilano 3 line steering helms. (Mine utilizes the return line to the uniflow valve)
Forgive my long winded explanation, I've tried to include all relevant info in the event it may help with a diagnosis. The problem is: If I turn the rudder to starboard or port using the autopilot pump controls, then immediately try to return the rudder to center by turning the "wheel" in the opposite direction it takes 2 or 3 complete turns of the wheel for the rudders to start moving. However, if I turn the wheel in the same direction as the pump was turning it, the rudders respond to the wheel normally.
OBSERVATIONS
- If I let it sit for a minute without touching the wheel or pilot controls, the rudder responds to the wheel normally in both directions.
- If I let it sit for a couple of days, the wheel turns with no resistance and must be turned back & forth a couple of times before it starts engaging the rudders. Same thing with the autopilot pump, it runs for a good minute before the rudders start moving. After that it behaves as above.
-When I bleed the system & top up the reservoir at the upper helm, when I come back to it after awhile & turn the wheel, oil floods out the plug/ air bleed on top of the reservoir as if it was overfilled. (Don't think overfilling is possible, it is either full or not I would guess)
Any thoughts or suggestions greatly appreciated.