my compass doesn't spin..

groundhog · #1 (**permalink**) 08-01-2011

So how come my compass always shows me 180 south, or close to it?
There is a small LCD TV behind it and an inverter, but these are not operating.

Compass is a plastimo about 5yrs old.

gh

Tempest · #2 (**permalink**) 08-01-2011

You never leave the dock? Sorry..couldn't resist..

Dunno... when was the last time you saw it work?

weinie · #3 (**permalink**) 08-01-2011

1st reply wins!

MacGyverRI · #4 (**permalink**) 08-01-2011

An inverter has windings in it so it's probably creating a magnetic field.

jerryrlitton · #5 (**permalink**) 08-02-2011

Move the compass off the boat and see what happens.

CorvetteGuy · #6 (**permalink**) 08-02-2011

I'd go with magnetic interferance

justified · #7 (**permalink**) 08-02-2011

Anything electrical can effect your compass and that includes battery operated devices.
Besides unless you are live aboard get rid of the TV .....get off the dock and go SAILING

MikeinLA · #8 (**permalink**) 08-02-2011

TURN

LarryandSusanMacDonald · #9 (**permalink**) 08-03-2011

It doesn't need to be turned on, or even electrical, to affect the compass. I once set a canned air horn on the binnacle and missed my destination by several miles.

If you have anything DC electrical - even a little LED light for the compass - near the compass twist the wires so the electromagnetic field negates itself when you turn the device on.

billyruffn · #10 (**permalink**) 08-03-2011

You probably forgot to turn the compass "ON". There should be a small switch somewhere. Next time you're on the boat look for it.