You Stay Bit

I've been home for about a week since the big cruise to Islamorada. In seven nights, I've had 5 dreams about sailing Miss Marisol. One night, I woke up and raised my hand to the ceiling to steady myself because I thought I was aboard. I nearly put my hand into the ceiling fan. I groggily stared at my daughters night light, trying to make sense of the view. What was it, and why was it on my boat?

Back to reality

Warning: Boring Tech Stuff Ahead

I discovered the joy of an automatic pilot system on our recent cruise. I have an old AutoHelm ST4000. Well, that's what the label says. I've been searching old manuals and believe it's actually an ST3000.

A motor drives a belt which is attached to the steering wheel on one side and an electronic compass on the other. The belt is held on to the motor with a plastic cap. Still with me? OK, so the cap cracked in half and fell off during our cruise.

My brother figured out how to reattach the cap with glue. This fix didn't last long. Next we glued them together AND wrapped it together with electrical and duct tapes. Success! Our system stayed together for the remainder of our trip.

Now I'm pouring over old files online looking for parts numbers and hoping to replace the cap. I've had a taste of AutoHelm, and there's no going back. If you can help me identify the part and acquire one, I would be greatful.