Cobaltchat.com

The compass fluid in my Ritchie magnetic compass is bleeding out from the aged seals in my 2005 220. To service the unit, I am keen to pull the compass out of the combing in front of the helmsman but I have found the slope of the screen prevents its extraction.
I see 2 options : 1 may be to remove stbd windscreen or, 2 to remove the instrument cluster and dash panel with the compass attached.
Any advise with minimal disruption and best turn around time would be appreciated. Thanks in advance

.
Help Hipshot. Welcome to the Cobaltchat forum. So glad you found us!

The compasses on our boats have all been electronic. Bigblockpower has owned your model and will chime in shortly with replacement advice.

Any pics?

Again, welcome aboard mate!

.

Really I wouldn't remove the helm. I would lift the windscreen first. Can't say I ever looked at a compass though. I would leave it.

Cheers for that BB,I was leaning toward lifting the screen. I show the upcoming crew how to use a compass and not rely on GPS while the land based visuals are not that distinguishable at times. I like to keep the old skills alive.

Hi Cobalt Chat
Further looking into my compass removal dilemma on my 2005 220, I was able to remove the instrument coaming with Ritchie Explorer Flush Mount compass still attached, but only after trimming 1/2" from the forward and centre 1/4" tie down bolts that secure to the instrument panel. No removal of the windscreen required ,only the support arm.
Imagine my surprise when the decal on the base of the removed compass said ' NOT REFILLABLE'. Not to be outdone after pricing a replacement at $330AUD I will attempt to remove the filling point plug as the rubber diaphragm appears intact . While being confident to source some compass fluid from aviation colleagues I have nothing to lose except my own time and if over the next few years I lose another few ounces of fluid then I will have to repeat my efforts.
Pics will follow when I get organised
Regards to all

Where is it leaking from?

Hi I have the same problem on my 2005 220. The bulb hade a crack. So ordered a new one but cant take the old one out. If im understand Hipshot correctly he was able to lift the top cover on the dash and tilt it forwards? I cant really find the screws to do so. Any advice?