Autohelm 6000+ clutch will not release

I have an Autohelm 6000+ with type 100 computer and a type 1 rotary chain drive. The clutch will not release when the pilot is placed in STANDBY mode. The clutch will release when master 12v power to the ap is turned off.

I have independently tested the 6000+ head and the ST600R remote control. Both exhibit the same problem when connected individually. The clutch will not release.

The clutch will not release when both the 6000+ head and ST600R are disconnected.

The clutch will release when I disconnect one of the clutch leads from the computer. The clutch voltage at the computer is 6.0V in either ap ON or STANDBY mode. I know that should be 12v, how disturbing is this?

Advice so far has been that the computer is at fault. I have not been able to find a vendor that will repair or replace that.

Some have suggested that I put a toggle switch at the helm in one of the clutch control lines to force a release and tide me over until the ap controls can be upgraded. A new autopilot system is not at the top of my list to acquire.

This is all new to me. I've just owned the boat for a couple of weeks. My previous sailboats were daysailers with ob engines, not many systems to diagnose and repair.

Sure would appreciate help and advice on what should be done to make this autopilot useful. It works just fine when engaged.

Art Nacht
Kindred Spirits IP-35
Highland Park, NJ

I had the same problem with my 6000 on my IP27-146. Problem is the computer, which cannot be serviced. I removed the remote plug (which I never used) next to the control head and put a power on/off switch in the hole. So, to disengage the Autohelm, I flip the switch to off. To reengage, I turn the power on and hit Auto. Has worked fine for the past 3 years. ML

Hi Michael,

Thanks for your response. Someone had suggested a similar solution, you're the first I've found that has done it and endorsed the workaround.

Did you switch the power or clutch line? Where is the hole you're referring to. I'm not seeing one on my 6000+ control head bezel.

FYI and for others: A member on Sailnet referred me to a retired geologist in Durango CO that works on old Autohelm gear at the component level. He quoted me $150 and 1-3 day turnaround to fix my AP100. Name is Dan Gerhardt. Google "Dan Gerhardt autohelm" and you'll find dozens of references for his work and contact info. PM me for email address.

Art Nacht
Kindred Spirits IP-35-49
Highland Park, NJ

My switch controls the power.

There was a plug next to the control head for a hand-held remote controller for the autopilot. I removed the plug and put the new power switch there.

This answer is a little late, but I hope it helps. The "locked clutch" is a common fault in the older Autohelm systems course coumputers.. So much so that Autohelm recommended putting a switch in the circuit to the clutch solenoid as part of the installation. My boat has one installed at the helm by a previous owner. I have personal experience with a 35 IP being struck by lightining and having the Auto[ilot freeze. This can really be a problem if you have other elec tronics like a depth sounder or GPS in the autopilot circuit. You have to cut the power to the circuit so you can steer and then turn it on briefly to see where you are or the depth and then turn it back off so you can steer. Yep - - it can't be fixed and it is the course computer fault, not the clutch/solenoid. It is propbably a good idea to have a switch at the helm in case it locks at a bad moment, so you can still use other things on that circuit. Sorry but this is the answer.

George
S/V Delicia

Hi George,

Your answer is not too late. You added to the knowledge for the solution and my confidence to pursue the clutch disconnect switch to solve. I've got the parts to install on next trip to the boat. After a planned cruise in June I'm going to ship the AP100 to the gentleman in Durango for repair. I'll report back on the experience. Then I'll have both a working ap and clutch disconnect for emergency release. My ap was thoughtfully wired with a separate breaker at least.

Art

Art Nacht
Kindred Spirits IP-35-49
Highland Park, NJ