I took the autopilot drive and smart box over to the tecnhinican this morning and I just got a call from and they think they have it figured out. They tested the drive and it seemed to work, but when they took it apart, they found one of the magnets inside was broke in 2 and the motor is on its last legs. So I can get this one rebuilt which would cost $1000 and take 3 -4 weeks to get back or I can buy a new one for $1440 and it will be here tomorrow. Being a cheap cruiser, we decided to go for the rebuild.......

Just kidding - its a no brainer, so we should have the new driver tomorrow. It will only take a few minutes to install. Joining the wires will be the hardest part. I will use butt connectors and then put heat shrink wrap around all of the connections and then coat them with liquid tape to try to get them sealed up.

I think today is my big brothers birthday - So Happy Birthday Les. Have a great day and thanks for the advice and info on solving my started problem.

The next thing we need is a weather window to make the jump across the gulf stream and head for Nassau and the Exumas. It looks like its supposed to turn again on Thursday night. Everybody - keep your fingers crossed for us and hopefully the weather gods will smile down on us.