Check alignment of the compass with the fore-aft line of the ship: (A-Coefficient) Pedestal mount sail/ Centerline mounted: Sight the compass center pivot pin, forward lubbers line, and boat mast / bow. All should line up. If not, slew the compass to bring them into alignment with the mast/bow.
Check for position of ampmeter gauges, tachometers: If they are near the compass, do they affect the compass when the engine R.P.M.'s are changed. IF YES consult a Professional.
Check within 8 (eight) feet of the compass in all directions, for miscellaneous ferrous metal objects, i.e., anchors, stereo speakers, propane tanks, air horns and hand held VHF radios SECURE ALL ITEMS.
Freelancers who want a proven system for growing a steady stream of more and better clients
When not using your boat, keep the compass COVERED AT ALL TIMES. Use a light colored cover to reflect the UV rays which cause crazing on your plastic dome.
Fixed Land Ranges, because they do not move. The problem with floating Navigational Aids is that you must assume that they are on station and that is not always true. Use caution when checking your compass against Loran or GPS. Both generate a HAS BEEN FUNCTION (the course & speed average HAS BEEN 162° , & 6.2 knots). It does not generate real time information. Even if you maintain a steady straight course for a number of minutes you will not be close to the accuracy of fixed land ranges
North/ South (C-Coefficient): Check compass heading off a fixed land range within +/- 10 degrees of
East/ West (B-Coefficient): Check compass heading off a fixed land range within +/- 10 degrees of E/W
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Upon completion of your voyage, avoid wiping salt water spray off the dome with your hand (it will dull the plastic dome surface) COMPASSES LOVE FRESH WATER BATHS. Never use abrasive cleaners or waxes on the DOME.