Datamarine link 5000 wind instrument

tartan34 · #1 (**permalink**) 07-11-2011

In 2010, when at the top of my mast cleaning spider webs and inspecting the rigging; I sprayed lubricant between the wind cups hub and the housing with WD40. Now one year later, the wind cups do not spin in light air and register about 2-4 knots slower in heavier air. The wind instrument was rebuilt by Datamarine about five years ago and have operated accurately until this year. I suspect the WD40 may have caused the problem and may not have been the correct lubricant or no lubricant should have been used. Has anyone had this experience? Any suggestions on how to correct the problem?
Thanks, Tartan34

nickmerc · #2 (**permalink**) 07-12-2011

I think contacting DMI and having them take a look at it may be the best idea.

As an aside, WD-40 is not an actual lubricant. It is used to displace water. However, it will function as a lubricant for a short period or in extremely light loading situations. If lubricant would have been needed something like McLube would have been a better choice.

tartan34 · #3 (**permalink**) 07-13-2011

Nick,
Thanks for your reply. I have contacted DMI; they had no techincal advice other than for me to send the unit to them for repair at an average cost of $225. I'm planning to take the wind unit down from the mast for closer inspection and possible cleaning/lubricating with McLube if needed. Sending to DMI is an option if self repair will not succeed.
Tartan34