Ax,
It is NOT normal for that unit.
The jamoke didn't take time to get the unit true and square on the wheel.
Want to fix it?
Spin the wheel and notice where the king post is when you feel the
"scratchies" are.
If it is one per turn, the ring is probably not true. Loosen the clamps
and watch where the locator post is in the slot. When it gets tight,
give it a push. A few of these and it should be true enough.

If it is two places, loosen all the soke clamps and spin the wheel. It
will probably be OK now, so tighten one clamp at a time while doing
turns. If one gets bad, look at how that one clamps up. that one may
need a little shim toe make it true.

Good Luck

Matt Colie




wrote:

Hi,
I have a brand new ST4000 wheelpilot on a 35ft sailboat. When I move
the wheel (autopilot not engaged), the unit makes a scratchy/squeaky
noise going through certain wheel positions as if something is
dragging). It doesn't really affect steering ability and the noise is
not very loud, but it is a bit annoying and does have a bit of a "cheap
plastic" feel to it. The dealer who installed the unit says that this
is normal for this unit? I don't have a comparison. Am I too picky?
Opinions? Suggestions.

Thanks
Ax