Sailing Zephyr IVvideo

Autopilot FAILS After Leaving Marina | Live Repair

July 3, 2025 · 9 min · 904 views · Chichester Harbour

What this video covers

Dave and Bill encounter an autopilot failure on Zephyr IV shortly after departing Brighton Marina.0:23 The system locks up, forcing manual steering during the transit toward Chichester Harbour.0:16 Dave identifies the fault within the autopilot computer, which is located in the lazarette.0:16 He discovers that a nearby mains connector leaks water onto the circuit board, causing the malfunction.0:31 After cleaning the board and applying WD-40, he reassembles the unit.0:51 The autopilot resumes operation, allowing the crew to navigate into Chichester Harbour, where they anchor in 20 feet of water near Itchenor.6:07 During the subsequent passage toward Portsmouth, the autopilot experiences recurring issues.7:18 The crew decides to return to their home berth at Royal Clarence Marina in Gosport to perform a more thorough repair.8:27 Navigating the Chichester Harbour entrance requires careful attention to the channel markers and tidal flow, as the area near the entrance is shallow and prone to rough conditions.

Watch on YouTube

Boats in this video

Westerly Yachts Ltd. Oceanquest 35Their boat

More from Sailing Zephyr IV

Day in the Life of a Solo Sailor at 82 : Cowes to PooleJul 2026Boat Toilet Not Working? I Replaced the Jabsco Pump at 82!Jul 2026Ultrasonic Anti-Fouling Test: Will the Seaflo System Deliver?Jun 2026Can You Pick Up a Mooring Alone? Here's HowJun 2026

From Sailing Zephyr IV — see the channel’s boat, crew, and every analyzed video.

The Sailing Directory Newsletter

One email with the fleet's best finds — the moments, boats, and stories worth your watch time. Enter your own address to get your own copy.

Report an issue