30 ST4000+ Wheel & Tiller Autopilots: Owner’s Handbook
3 Advanced Operation
Using AutoTack in Wind Vane mode
After using the AutoTack function (see page 10) to tack in Wind Vane
mode, you may need to adjust the locked heading until you achieve
the required apparent wind angle.
Note: Before you use the AutoTack function in Wind Vane mode, you
must make sure that the wind vane was centered accurately at
installation.
Operating hints for Wind Vane mode
• Always trim your sails carefully to minimize the amount of
standing helm.
• Reef the headsail and mainsail a little early rather than too late.
• In Wind Vane mode the pilot will react to long-term wind shifts,
but will not correct for short-term changes such as gusts.
• In gusty and unsteady inshore conditions, it is best to sail a few
degrees further off the wind so that changes in apparent wind
direction can be tolerated.
D4373-2
Apparent wind angle
AutoTack
angle
After tacking, you may need to make
minor course changes to achieve the
desired apparent wind angle
AutoTack to Port