User Manual

Installation, Compensation and Maintenance Instructions for
RITCHIE
®
Compasses
Made In U.S.A
All Magnetic Compasses are vulnerable to magnetic interference, which will produce
errors, called deviation. It is the Owner/Operator and/or Helmsman’s responsibility to
make sure the compass is properly installed and compensated. Compensation is the act of
correcting for deviation. Magnets (speakers, microphones etc.), ferrous metals (steel, iron, etc.) and
current carrying devices are common causes of deviation. It is important to understand that
magnetic compasses point toward Magnetic North. There is a difference between Magnetic North
and True North, and that difference is called variation. Variation differs depending on your
geographical location and can be determined by referring to a local chart.
Please read the Instructions completely before beginning installation.
Installation Requirements
Visibility Guidelines: The compass should be close enough to the helmsman and positioned below the
helmsman's line of sight so it is easily read during normal operation. Direct Read Dial or CombiDamp
Dial models will allow the compass to be mounted higher, near or at eye level.
Surface Alignment Guidelines: Serious errors can develop and performance degraded when alignment
guidelines are not met!
Deck, Surface, and Flush mount models: You will need a flat and level surface (when the boat is on a
level keel). Many boats have a curved or slanted mounting surface and if this is the case, a fairing block
must be used to bring the compass to a level position.
Bulkhead & Dash Mount models: If you are mounting to a bulkhead that is not perpendicular (90°
angle) to the centerline of the boat and/or not vertical (90° angle) to the waterline of the boat (when the
boat is on a level keel), a fairing block must be used to make the compass so.
Note: Some models are designed for slanted mounting surfaces (off vertical). Please reference your
Mounting Template for specifics.
Bracket Mount models: If you are mounting to a bulkhead that is not perpendicular (90° angle) to the
centerline of the boat or a horizontal surface that is not level “side to side” a fairing block must be used
to make the compass so. Note: Bracket Mount models can be leveled “front to back” within the bracket.
Pedestal Mount models: The mounting surface is usually pre-determined by the pedestal manufacturer.
Various adapters and mounting hardware may be required. Please contact your pedestal manufacturer
for details.
Deviation Guidelines: Select a location that has no more that 15 degrees deviation on any of the four
cardinal points (N S E and W) (see below, “Location Testing Guidelines”). Most compasses have a built-
in compensation system that will correct for fixed deviation up to 15 degrees
It is important to realize that proper compensation is not possible when a compass is subjected to a
magnetic field that is variable. Some shipboard devices can cause varying magnetic fields. Devices such
as windshield wipers, high current carrying wire and even some steering wheels must be considered when
selecting a location for your compass.
Location Testing Guidelines: Use your compass to test a location. Most models have two brass rods
near the bottom of the compass which rotate 360 degrees; the slotted ends may be all that is visible.
CAUTION:

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