Moving Autopilot control unit - splicing wires

[raingolfer]

I’m moving my ST6000 Autopilot control unit to a pod attached to my helm, and need to extend the existing data cable. Can I splice some wire to the 3 conductors? There’s a black bulge thing in the cable a few inches front the controller, should I splice “before” this (into the longer side)?

[Sailmonkey]

The black bulge thing is most likely a ferrite. It suppresses electrical noise on the line. So yes, ideally add your wires on the long side.

You’ll want to use three conductors and the shield. Ideally solder and heat shrink the wires, and join the shield/screen of the extension wire to the original wire.

[raingolfer]

Thanks, Sailmonkey!

[smac999]

the 3rd wire is the sheild. 3 total

[Sailmonkey]

Originally Posted by smac999

the 3rd wire is the sheild. 3 total

And then there’s that.......it’s been so long since I touched seatalk I couldn’t remember.....

[Rough Magic]

After splicing the wires in the coax (heatshrink tubing) I often wrap a piece of aluminum foil around the splice connected to both sides of the shield at the cut-in. Then shrink wrap the whole splice. Helps keep RFI from leaking in.