RITCHIE NAVIGATION
HELMSMAN COMPASS UNIT
GENERAL
The Helmsman series was first manufactured by Ritchie in March, 1981. The series consist of the following
models.:
HB-70 Bracket Mount - Open Face Dial
HB-71 Bracket Mount - Direct Reading Dial
HF-72 Flush Mount - Open Face Dial
HF-73 Flush Mount - Direct Reading Dial
HD-74 Deck Mount - Open Face Dial
HD-75 Deck Mount - Direct Reading Dial
HV-77 Bulkhead Mount - Direct Reading Dial
All models are equipped with 45” lubber lines, night lighting, built-in compensators and are fully gumballed.
TROUBLESHOOTING
There are usually two problem areas to be concerned with when a Helmsman is brought in for repair: A bubble or
dial sticking.
1.
Bubble in fluid: This will probably be the most common problem you will encounter. It can be caused by a
cracked dome, ruptured diaphragm, defective “O”
ring, cover screws not “bottomed” properly or fluid not vacuumed sufficiently. Caution: If watertesting to ascertain
point of leakage, do not apply more than one pound of air pressure or the diaphragm may be ruptured.
2
Dial sticking: It is good practice to check the pivot and jewel condition before the compass is disassembled
because with fluid to dampen the card action, any detect will be easier to see. Allow the dial to completely settle,
observe the heading and then deflect the dial two or three degrees with a original position. Failure to do so
indicates a defective pivot or jewel, and the entire dial assembly should be replaced (P/N 13J1X or 13J2X).
3
Discoloration: If the fluid is discolored, the unit should be disassembled and all parts cleaned with fresh compass
oil. The dial assembly must be either cleaned or replaced. Be sure to replace both the “O” ring and diaphragm as
contamination in one of these parts caused the discoloration originally.
Disassembly: The exploded views that accompany these instructions simplify disassembly. Care should be
taken not to disturb the compensators so that any adjustment will remain the same when the unit is returned to the
customer.
NOTES
When reassembling the compass, be sure the self tapping cover screws and
diaphragm retaining screws are completely "bottomed". On all models except the
HIV-77. when replacing the diaphragm retainer, which also contains the
compensators, be sure the compensators are positioned properly. One slotted rod
end should be pointing aft and the remaining slotted end should point to
starboard. Also, on all models except the HV-77, be sure to replace the two
sunshade retaining nuts under the cover. These nuts arc rectangular in shape and
must be mounted with the long side down.
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