Battery Connections, Bleeding Hydraulics

Battery Connections

Connections to the battery should be made last. Connect the ground side first. Connect the black (-) wire to the negative (-) side of the battery first. Connect the orange (+) wire to the positive (+) side of the battery terminal. We prefer that the system is connected directly to a battery, but if you are connecting to a terminal block or other source, the Gladiator needs a 40 amp supply. If the autopilot power is taken from an accessory switch, be sure that the proper gauge of wire is used.

Note: Do not be alarmed if the connections sparks when connected to the battery, you are charging a capacitor inside the unit.

Do not cut out or eliminate the fuse portion on your battery cable, it is there to protect your system and will void your warranty if it is removed.

The Battery cable is 8’ long. If you need to lengthen the battery cable, do so by following the table below for the proper gauge wire. Be sure to include the fuse holder when extending wire.

Extended Length	10’	15’	20’	25’
Gauge of Wire Recommended	12	10	10	8

Bleeding Hydraulics

As with any hydraulic system, the air must be purged completely from All Hydraulic lines, Helms, Cylinders, Gladiator pump and Shadow Drive Valve in order for the system to work properly. Failure to bleed the system properly and completely, will cause the system not to work properly. See your steering system’s owner’s manual for proper bleeding instructions. Treat the Gladiator pump as the lowest helm while bleeding the system.

You can download bleeding directions for most helm types from the internet.

Disabling the Shadow Drive Valve using code 367 ( See page 32 on how to change the Parameters) will make bleeding the system much easier. Be sure the Shadow Drive is enabled again when you are done with bleeding.

Be sure to check for leaks at all Hydraulic Fittings; Pump, Helm, Cylinder, and Shadow Drive Valve.

Refer to the helm manufacturers instructions for the recommended fluid.

Recheck for leaks and check hydraulic fluid levels after Sea Trial.