ξAccess
The Electrohydraulic Unit is the place where all the components connect together and the place where fluid is added and fluid level is checked. Leave room for service loops in the cables and hoses.
The Deckmount switch should be easy to reach with your free hand when your other hand is on the kicker tiller. This can be done after the initial turn on blinking setup is complete. In case of an emergency, quick access to the deckmount switch is a good idea, by pressing the button once it will take the autopilot to standby, allowing you to take control of the tiller handle. Pressing the button again will return it to autopilot mode.
If you intend to hook up to GPS, the connection between the GPS and the autopilot is made at the Sensor ball and the NMEA 0183 output on your GPS.
ξProtection
Locate the Electrohydraulic unit and Sensor ball in places where they will not get submerged or exposed to wash down.
Use a quality electrical insuating grease compound on all electrical connections (Dow Corning #4) except the orange connectors # 1,2,3, & 4.
ξMoving Parts
Hoses and cables that connect the Electrohydraulic unit to the engine mounted components need to be free from binding and kinking. Be sure to remember your kicker moves up and down on the lift bracket, tilts up and down, and steers lock to lock.
ξHose Length
Try to keep the hose length between the steering cylinder and the Electrohydraulic unit short. But leave enough length for movement of Kicker (See note above on moving Parts).
ξMagnetic Environment
The Sensor ball has a compass in it. Do not mount the ball near magnetic materials, magnets (speakers and electric motors), or high current carrying wires. Small, vehicle fixed, magnetic disturbances can be calibrated out, but moveable or changing magnetic disturbances such as anchors, anchor chain, and wiper motors should be kept at least 24” away. A common problem is to have mounted the ball near a glove box, and then someone puts tools in the glove box. Keep the Sensor ball away from Air Ride seats.
ξStrain Relief and Cable Protection
Do not let the connectors on the Electrohydraulic unit be the sole support for the cables connected to them. Use the tie wraps to tie the cables down to the Electrohydraulic frame. There are several holes in the sheet metal frame provided for this purpose.
Don’t run cables and hoses over sharp edges. Use grommets in through holes to protect the cables.
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