This Ritchie Navigator 4½″ magnetic compass with compensators and 12 V LED lighting is a flush-mount compass designed for use as a steering compass on powerboats and sailboats. The FNW-203 variant features a white housing, a white dial, and a CombiDial for combined front and top reading.
The nominal dial diameter is 4½″/114 mm. The CombiDial features large numerals and 45° lubber lines, allowing the heading to be read from different positions at the helm. The movable sun shield protects the dial and also facilitates top reading.
Built-in compensators allow for the correction of fixed magnetic deviation after installation. The compass has a temperature-resistant construction for an extended operating range and is designed to be repairable and serviceable. It is made in the USA and comes with a 5-year warranty against defects in materials and workmanship.
The maximum bezel diameter is 154 mm. The compass extends 67 mm above the mounting surface and requires a mounting depth of 76 mm below the surface. The lower mounting housing has a diameter of 132 mm. The cutout must be 120.6–130.2 mm, and the bolt circle is 137.4 mm.
The compass must be mounted on a flat, horizontal surface with the centerline parallel to the boat's centerline. Use the mounting template and non-magnetic screws or hardware, and keep the mounting location free from magnets, steel, high-current cables, speakers, wiper motors, and other sources of variable magnetic fields. The included mounting gasket must be used, while sealants should not be applied directly to the compass.
The white 12 V LED night lighting is positioned for both front and top reading. The connection must be made to a properly fused 12 V DC circuit; for a separate circuit, use a 1 A fast-acting AGC glass fuse. After installation, deviation must be checked and the compass compensated. Maintenance should be performed using clean fresh water and a damp cloth without chemical or abrasive cleaners. Documented accessories include the protective cover N-203-C, mounting gasket NV-0175, and mounting template NV-0076.
Key featuresMagnetic marine compass for flush mounting
CombiDial with front and top reading
4½″/114 mm white compass dial with large numerals
45° lubber lines and movable sun shield
Built-in compensators
White 12 V LED night lighting
Cutout: 120.6–130.2 mm
Maximum diameter over bezel: 154 mm
Model: FNW-203
5-year manufacturer's warranty
