ST60 Wind Direction No Longer Working

[svbloom]

We have recently upgraded our chartplotter to a Raymarine A98. We have existing Raytheon ST60 instruments in place- a tri-data, wind speed/direction and an autohelm (ST6000+). Since upgrading the chartplotter, the wind direction is no longer working. (The needle just bounces around irraticaly) The wind speed works great and the windvane up at the top of the mast appears to be working just fine. Also, the existing autohelm is connected with the chartplotter just fine and can be controlled from it. It is pointing in the right direction. We tried calibrating it (2 slow circles, entering calibration mode, pointin into the wind) but it didn't seem to do anything. Is there something we are missing? Any advice would be greatly appreciated.

[Chuck - Raymarine - Moderator]

Welcome to the Raymarine Forum svbloom,

If the wind transducer is connected directly to the transducer terminals of the ST60 Wind Instrument, then the fault may be rooted in the wind transducer and/or the ST60 Wind Instrument itself. It is recommended that the Wind Transducer be tested per the FAQ found here. Should the transducer be determined to be good, then it is recommended that the ST60 Wind Instrument be disconnected from all but the transducer and a source of power. Should the problem persist when isolated from the other equipment, then the ST60 Wind Instrument would be deemed to have failed. As Raymarine can no longer service ST60 Instruments, the ST60 Wind Wind Instrument may be replaced by an i60 Wind Instrument or an iTC-5 Analog Instrument Transducer in conjunction with an i70 Multifunction Instrument Display.

[svbloom]

Thanks Chuck. We did the recommended test and Red to Shield was 7.97 volts and all others were in the recommended 2-6 volt range. We tested it with the head unit still integrated into the rest of our system and then we unplugged it to isolate it as you suggested. The problem persists. Irratic wind direction needle. Is there a way we can determine if the issue is the head unit or the wind transducer/vane? We need to figure out exactly what needs replacing. Thanks!

[Chuck - Raymarine - Moderator]

svbloom,

The tests that were specified within the previously referenced FAQ were to determine whether the transducer is functioning properly. Given that the measured voltages were in the range specified and the problem persists when the instrument has been isolated from the system is indicative of a failure of the ST60 Wind Instrument. It is recommended that one of the instrument replacement options provided within the prior response be undertaken.

[svbloom]

Thanks Chuck- Upon further investigation we determined that the windvane piece on the wind transducer at the top of the mast has broken off! Am I correct in thinking we need to order the ST60 Wind Transducer Service Kit part #E28081?

[Chuck - Raymarine - Moderator]

svbloom,

If cups are shaped like trapezoids, then the part number for the service kit is E28081. If cups are circular/spherical, then the part number for the service kit is A27167.

[svbloom]

(06-20-16 12:42 PM)Chuck - Raymarine - Moderator Wrote:  svbloom,

If cups are shaped like trapezoids, then the part number for the service kit is E28081. If cups are circular/spherical, then the part number for the service kit is A27167.

Thank you kindly. Any idea what kind of tools I need to take up the mast with me to remove the broken feather and install the new one? Or is this a job that will require me to bring the whole unit down, install on the boat and then go aloft again to reattach?

[Chuck - Raymarine - Moderator]

svbloom,

The required allen wrench is supplied with the kit. Given how challenging it can be to work aloft and the possibility of dropped/lost parts and tools, you may want to consider repairing the masthead transducer after coming down from the mast.

[svbloom]

Thanks Chuck. What kind of tool is required to remove the masthead transducer?

[Chuck - Raymarine - Moderator]

svbloom,

The masthead transducer is secured to the masthead block via a hand tightened threaded collar that is part of the masthead transducer.