[DG] [DG11] The Rudder is much heavier than previous summer

[BonitaBlanca]

Usually the yacht has light staring when our hydraulic auto pilot is disengaged. This year the staring is very heavy. I physically uncoupled the auto pilot ram and its back to its light normal self.
Is it possible the clutch doesn't totally disengage to allow the wheel to be free when disengaged or is it more likely a warn auto pilot ram?
Otherwise it is working as usual.

[Derek - Raymarine - Moderator]

Hi BonitaBlanca

Thankyou for your enquiry.

Please can you identify the steering ram more clearly, it does not look like a Raymarine Hydraulic linear drive?

It is possible the ram has worn seals or the bypass valve is not opening fully to allow manual steering, can you also confirm the photograph is upside down - the hydraulic pipes should exit the ram at the top, not underneath.

Regardes

Derek

[Derek - Raymarine - Moderator]

Hi Bonitablanca,

It is possible the ram is worn, but also check what Oil is used - is it quite a thick viscous oil or a light oil? Does the oil look discoloured or dirty in any way?

With the ram disconnected from the steering is is hard or easy to push and pull manually?

Thanks
Derek