Ritchie Explorer 70 mm magnetic compass with 12 V night lighting is a black, flush-mount marine compass for navigation from a flat instrument console or steering pedestal. This variant is model F-50, featuring a black housing, black dial, and direct-reading face.
The 70 mm dial features 5° graduations and green night lighting for reading in the dark. Two built-in compensators allow for the correction of fixed deviation, while DirectiveForce magnets ensure rapid settling on heading. The movement mechanism utilizes a sapphire jewel bearing and a hardened steel pivot.
The housing is constructed from a high-temperature composite material and includes a removable sun shield. The compass capsule is factory-sealed, and the compass is designed to be serviceable. A five-year manufacturer's warranty is included.
The compass is flush-mounted into a 95 mm circular hole. The outer bezel measures 124 mm in diameter, the bolt circle is 107.7 mm, the height above the mounting surface is 47 mm, and the mounting depth is 57 mm. The mounting template has part number EX-0040, while the corresponding mounting gasket is EX-0039.
During installation, the compass centerline must be positioned parallel to the boat's centerline on a flat, horizontal mounting surface. Use non-magnetic fasteners and check the mounting location for interference from speakers, steel, current-carrying cables, wiper motors, and other electrical equipment. The built-in compensators can correct deviation of up to approximately ±15°, and there must be access to the compensator screws during adjustment.
The light wires for the 12 V night lighting should be routed and connected before final fastening. Do not loosen the screws near the compass dome, as this may cause fluid leakage and damage. Deviation should be checked at the start of the season and after installing new equipment near the compass.
Key featuresFlush-mount magnetic compass with direct reading
Model F-50 in the Explorer series
70 mm black dial with 5° graduations
Green 12 V night lighting
Two built-in compensators
DirectiveForce magnets
Sapphire jewel bearing and hardened steel pivot
95 mm mounting hole and 57 mm mounting depth
Black composite housing with removable sun shield
Five-year manufacturer's warranty
