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Q: Should I repair or replace my compass?
A: If the dome is 4 or more inches across (the width of your knuckles) it is most likely cheaper to repair than to replace. The need to restore a classic may make repair a necessity as exact replacements are no longer available. Occasionally older equipment can be updated with newer parts.
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Q: How long does a typical repair take?
A: Most repairs take 2-3 weeks once we receive your compass. Q: How can I contact you?
A: CapCompass can be reached by email (CapCompass@adelphia.net) or by phone (716-523-7192). We are open Tuesday through Thursday and a trained technician is usually available to speak with you. Please leave a voicemail between 9 am and 9 pm if we are not open. Thank you!
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SPRING COMPASS CHECK-UP
“If it’s North it’s Molson’s, if it’s South it’s Coor’s” might work for the weekend cruisers, but racers need a bit more accuracy. Your compass is the bottom line navigation instrument onboard your boat. Whether in a race around the buoys, a transit from city to city or making it safely back to harbor after a long day sailing in the sun, a matter of a degree or two can spell success or disaster.
In checking out the systems on your boat, give some time to check out the compass and make a high priority of compensating it during the first voyage in spring.
The basic checks can be done at home or onboard. Use a tool from your toolbox to swing the card 10° in each direction. (Most iron will be slightly magnetized.) The card should swing back to the original heading when you move the tool away. Both times the card should return to the starting heading plus or minus no more than the width of the lines marking the degrees on the card. More than this indicates a possible sticking card bearing. Also, check for bubbles, cracks in the dome, discolored fluid or a discolored dome. If any defects are found, look towards repair or replacement.
Information on basic compensation is available in the free pamphlet “Compass Course” available at Obersheimer’s Sailor Supply or West Marine. The pamphlet also contains a list of further information sources.
If you have questions or need help, call or email Dave Clark or Mike Clark at: (716) 523-7192, CapCompass@adelphia.net. Renovations and repairs are available, however please call or email first.
**Article is available via:
• email: CapCompass@adelphia.net
• web: www.CapCompass.com
**Article may be reproduced in part or in whole for club newsletters, etc.
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