Hydraulic Autopilot turns wheel but not rudder

[AmericanVagrant]

When engaged, my autopilot will spin the wheel freely but there is no effect on the rudder. After a few revolutions it will begin to flash the code "Rudder Response Failure".

Thoughts? My suspicion is some type of check valve in the pump, but I am not familiar enough with their operation to say so confidently. It has not functioned properly since I purchased the boat last year

Pump: Accu-Steer HRP17-12
Autopilot: Simrad AP16
Upper helm: Telflex Capilano

Lower helm: Teleflex Capilano

 

[rochepoint]

Had exactly the same problem with a Capilano Helm Pump, turned out to be the check valve in the upper helm. Installed a Capilano pump outlet check kit and everything worked great!....

 

[AmericanVagrant]

Had exactly the same problem with a Capilano Helm Pump, turned out to be the check valve in the upper helm. Installed a Capilano pump outlet check kit and everything worked great!....

Thank you! I take it each helm has two check valves and you had to replace all 4? Or is there a way to isolate which helm has the bad check valve?

 

[rochepoint]

Only my upper helm wheel was spinning so I only did the upper. Two valve in each pump.

 

[AmericanVagrant]

Thank you, I tested your theory yesterday by setting the autopilot, holding the upper helm and having a friend monitor the lower. Doing that, everything seemed to function properly and the lower helm stayed put.


Looks like it's only my upper that is the problem, check valve kit ordered! Thanks again, I'm sure you saved me a lot of time, money and frustration

 

[rochepoint]

Your welcome, hope it solves your problem.......