Navico 8000 Powerpilot malfunction

[jzukosky]

I control my Navico 8000 autopilot with the HP8000 hand programmer mounted at the wheel and it just failed. All had been well during a recent challenging offshore passage. Now, just puttputting down the ICW there is no response and apparently no power running to the controller. I have yet to trace wiring from the binnacle to the junction box but if anyone has helpful advice please send. I believe the problem lies in the electronics and not the pump or hydraulic ram.
Thanks and regards, Jerome Zukosky, s/v Pilgrim, Vancouver 42

[Joseph Brancato]

I have the same autopilot and had a problem which I believe is a problem mabe related to others . The computer control circuit for the hyd solenoid is undersized . In my case I had a jumper wire soldered in where the circuit burned , next when that is repaired you use that circuit as a trigger for a relay to direct power to the solenoid to open or close hyd valve. The amperes needed to trigger the relay is less than the amperes to operate the solenoid so that way the computer controls less direct current and won't burn out again.
The circuit design is way to small to support the load of the solenoid but good enough for the relay draw so open the computer black box and inspect circuits for burned circuits. I hope this is your answer to your problem .
Joseph Brancato
S/V Free Spirit
Long Island Sound
Stratford , Ct