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On many sailboats built in the 2000s, the Raymarine ST6001+ autopilot is still part of the onboard equipment. Despite its age, this unit remains capable of steering the boat as long as its electronics are properly maintained. This is precisely the case with this 20-year-old unit, which was refurbished by AD Leucate for just ?250?far less than the cost of completely replacing the system.
A console that has been completely disassembled to replace defective components
The repair required the control panel to be completely opened. The work involved replacing the LCD screen, which had become unreadable, as well as the associated electronic components.
Once the new components were installed, the console regained full functionality, with a perfectly legible display and operational controls. After reassembly and testing, the autopilot resumed service on board.
This procedure demonstrates that an accurate diagnosis sometimes makes it possible to target only the faulty components without replacing the entire unit.
Equipment built to last
The Raymarine ST6001+ is part of a generation of autopilots whose design still makes certain repairs easier today.
Electronic circuit boards, displays, and various components remain accessible to a technician with the necessary expertise. This architecture extends the service life of a device, which continues to perform the same functions as when it was first installed. For the owner, the benefits are twofold. The cost of the repair remains reasonable, and the existing system is preserved, without any modifications to the vehicle?s electrical system or replacement of the control unit or actuator.
This repair is not possible on all models
While this repair was possible on this ST6001+, this is not the case for all Raymarine transducers. Over the years, some devices have used specific components that are no longer available or integrated electronic assemblies that make repairs much more complex?or even impossible?when certain parts are no longer manufactured.
Each device must therefore be evaluated individually before considering refurbishment.
Repair Before Replacing
As the cost of onboard electronic equipment rises, repairs are gradually regaining their place in specialized workshops. For a budget of ?250, this autopilot console is good for several more years of sailing without any changes to the existing system. This solution also prevents the disposal of equipment in which only some of the components were faulty.
This project carried out by AD Leucate serves as a reminder that equipment that was well-designed from the outset can often remain in service for a long time, provided that the necessary technical expertise and parts are still available. For boaters with certain older models, repair therefore remains a viable alternative before considering a complete replacement of the system.
