Feedback Options For Sail Boats

Many yacht sailors prefer to maintain a high degree of feed-back, or feel, from their steering systems and traditionally this has been limited to cable steering. Now, with the new Admiral range of HD Steering units, this is fully achievable with hydraulics. In some instances however, feedback can be a disadvantage for either an autopilot, or for pure comfort in heavy conditions. The following accessories are available.

ELECTRIC BY-PASS

With Dual Stations or Single Stations fitted with HYDRAULIC autopilots, the helms (pumps) require isolation from each other to prevent motoring each other under pressure and failing to steer the boat accurately. The FEEDBACK-DS12V (for 12vDC or FEEDBACK-DS24V for 24Vdc) unit incorporates a dual lock valve for isolation of the two stations. This lock valve is automatic and does not prevent normal operation of the steering. Simply turning the wheel operates the valve and the steering functions normally. When you stop rotating the wheel the valve self-locks and prevents the helm from being motored under pressure. In effect this then removes ALL feedback.

To allow feedback, the unit has twin by-pass solenoids which divert the oil flow around the valve to the main steering helm unit and gives that station full feel. The valve can be activated by either a separate switch, or, if fitted to an autopilot, will turn off the feed-back every time the pilot is turned ON. Switching the pilot OFF returns feed-back to the steering wheel.

MODELS AVAILABLE FOR SINGLE STATIONS

Where someone wants the option of turning feel ON or OFF on the system, there is a similar model available for single stations. The Part Number FEEDBACK-SS12V or FEEDBACK-SS24V is smaller and more compact than the dual unit.

MANUAL CONTROL OF FEEDBACK

Where optional feedback is required, there is a manually operated alternative to the electric powered solenoid. This valve by-passes the Dual Station lock valve or Single Station lock valve in the same way as the electric version above. Part Number “FEEDBACK” can be mounted remotely from the lock valve, making it easier to operate from the helm position.

MANUAL LOCKING OF HELM

If an autopilot is fitted, and where feel is required ALL the time, by installing a single manual valve in ONE of the cylinder lines, you can lock the helm unit and prevent it from being turned. This not only prevents the autopilot from moving the helm, but also the steering wheel - just like a brake. This is quite popular where feel is to be retained at all times, but the ability to lock the wheel for a spell is essential. Simple to fit, it needs to be placed where it can be easily operate. Alternatively, it can be activated by a push-pull cable unit.

ELECTRIC LOCKING OF HELM

An electric version of the same principle is available. P/No FEEDBACK-NO12V (12Volt DC) and FEEDBACK-NO24V (24Volt DC) valves can lock one single line to the helm with the flick of a switch and is very simple to install