8-2-12 Section 8: Autopilots
ST290 Instrument System Owner’s Handbook
Preventing accidental gybes
Note: For the gybe inhibit feature to work, the autopilot must receive
suitable wind information.
A gybe inhibit feature stops AutoTack maneuvers away from the wind
thereby preventing accidental gybes. You can turn this feature on or off,
as required:
• With gybe inhibit on, you can perform an AutoTack only into the
wind.
• With gybe inhibit off, you can perform an AutoTack into or away
from the wind.
Note: Gybe inhibit is switched on as a default. You can switch it off in
Pilot Basic or Advanced Calibration (see Section 8, Chapter 5).
Gusty conditions
Ingustyconditions,the coursemay tendto wander slightly,particularly if
the sails are badly balanced. If you take the appropriate measures, the
autopilot will maintain competent control even in gale force conditions.
You can significantly improve course keeping by:
• Improving the sail balance:
• Not allowing the boat to heel over excessively.
• Easing the mainsheet traveller to leeward to reduce heeling and
weather helm.
• If necessary, reefing the mainsail a little early.
In very strong winds and large seas:
• Avoid sailing with the wind dead astern.
• Ideally, bring the wind at least 30° away from a dead run.
In severe conditions, you may also need to remove the mainsail and sail
under headsail only.
81183_2 S8.book Page 12 Tuesday, May 6, 2003 9:08 AM
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