Evolution Autopilot unable to hold course in waves

[wstigg]

Hi Chuck - Thank you for your detailed response!

It would be very disappointing to conclude that the Evolution AP system cannot handle the sea-state I'm encountering. These waves and conditions are quite modest compared to the conditions we encounter in the Southern Ocean. I researched this AP upgrade extensively and narrowed my selection to NKE and Ray, finally selecting Raymarine after conferring with your reps at the METS show in Amsterdam. Too early, methinks, to pull the plug on this AP, however.

I've been seeing my problems with vessel type set to Sail. I'll try Sail-Slow Turn to see if this helps. Two questions for now:

1. How should I check my hard-over time? Is this center-to-stop time? Or Starboard stop-to-port-stop time? How to check?

2. How do I adjust my rudder damping?

I'm happy to check my hard-over time and try Slow-Turn and/or play with rudder damping to get acceptable course-keeping performance.

Again, many thanks for your good help!

Cheers, Willy