This Ritchie Navigator 4½″ magnetic compass, model FN-201-WM, is a flush-mount steering compass with a black housing and black compass card. The Wheelmark type approval includes MED/4.23 Class B magnetic compasses for lifeboats and rescue boats, and the model is also suitable for sailboats, motorboats, motorsailers, and workboats.
The flat, open PowerDamp compass card is read from above and has a nominal diameter of 4½″, equivalent to approx. 114 mm. Large numerals, 45° lubber lines, and a movable sunshield support clear course reading. The built-in compensators are used for correcting fixed deviation.
The compass features built-in green LED night lighting for 12 V DC. The light wires should be connected to a suitably fused circuit; for a separate compass circuit, a fast-acting 1 A AGC glass fuse is recommended. The design is intended for an extended operating range at high temperatures and is serviceable and repairable.
The outer flange has a diameter of 154 mm, while the lower mounting section has a diameter of 132 mm. The nominal mounting hole is 130 mm, and the model can be mounted in an existing round hole of approx. 121–130 mm. The upper section has a vertical dimension of 67 mm, and the lower section measures 76 mm.
The compass must be flush-mounted on a flat, horizontal surface while the boat is on an even keel. Use the full-size mounting template, the included gasket, and non-magnetic fasteners. Sealant is not recommended, and the mounting location must be kept free of variable magnetic fields from, among other things, loudspeakers, windshield wipers, and current-carrying high-power cables.
A mounting location with a maximum of 15° deviation at each cardinal point is recommended. The built-in compensator system can correct fixed deviation of up to approx. 15°. After adjustment, the course should be checked every 30° and recorded on a deviation card; the check should be repeated at the start of the season and after the installation of electrical or magnetic equipment nearby.
Salt and dirt should be removed with clean fresh water and a damp cloth without chemical or abrasive cleaning agents. The screws closest to the compass dome must not be loosened, as compass fluid could otherwise leak. The model comes with a 5-year manufacturer's warranty against material and manufacturing defects in accordance with the warranty terms. Protective cover N-203-C and mounting gasket NV-0175 are documented as accessories and spare parts.
Key featuresFlush-mount Ritchie Navigator compass, model FN-201-WM
4½″ PowerDamp compass card with reading from above
Black housing and black compass card
45° lubber lines and movable sunshield
Built-in compensators for fixed deviation
Green LED night lighting for 12 V DC
Outer flange diameter of 154 mm
Mounting hole of approx. 121–130 mm
Wheelmark and MED/4.23 Class B type-approved
Designed for service and repair
