Alpha 3000 Help Needed

[ec_zoomer]

Good Day Mates,
I have an Alpha 3000 autopilot that I have used for many years with no problems, until now. While sailing one day the unit refused to steer straight, it would steer hard right or hard left, but regardless of setting it would not hold a course. I have thoroughly checked all wiring and components with no improvement. Also, I have changed out my control unit with my spare, same thing. Emails to Alpha marine are fruitless, they say its simple, I need to buy a new unit. The rudder postioning system checks out ok.My unit controls a hydraulic pump bridged into the main steering system. Turning the course knob will change the boat from hard right to hard left. External examination for the compass reveals nothing (no leaking fluid, damage, act,). I have found references on the web to similar problems, but alias, no solutions.
As I'm half way through a Caribbean loop and in Venezuela, shipping everything back (or even buying new components) is not a good option(pirates in the shipping companies, you know).
Thanks,
Ed
s/v Dreamtime

[sailingwife]

The local service provider is The Offshore Store 206-632-3025 Alpha Marine has always directed me there for service issues, perhaps they will be better able to help you. Have you changed anything such as placing anything metal close to the compass? The person we bought the boat from told us that we needed to be aware of what we store near the compass as it would cause a problem like what you are describing.

[ec_zoomer]

Thanks for the Reply,
I have already run into the problem you describe several years ago, chip clips E/W refridgerator magnets!
I wish it were that simple, but it happened underway, quite suddenly.
Thanks Again,
Ed