Seakeeper Alarm Codes: 23 Common Fault Codes (& What to Do)
Seakeeper Alarm Codes: 23 Common Fault Codes (& What to Do)
There are many Seakeeper alarm codes you might see on your display, from overheating to low brake pressure. We explain 23 Seakeeper fault codes & what to do if you see these errors.
Seakeeper alarm codes play a vital role in ensuring the smooth and safe operation of Seakeeper units. These codes indicate specific faults and errors that may arise during the unit's operation. Understanding and addressing these codes promptly is crucial to maintain the performance and longevity of the Seakeeper system. In this article, we will delve into the various alarm codes and explore the recommended steps to troubleshoot and resolve them efficiently.
Common Seakeeper alarm codes explained
Here's a quick roundup of the most common Seakeeper alarm codes which you might come across, along with some guidelines on what to do when you receive on of these faults.
Seakeeper alarm code 6 (drive temp high)
Seakeeper Alarm Code 6 is triggered when the internal drive temp exceeds 65C (70C for SK3). Do not worry, your Seakeeper is not overheating at this time. The Seakeeper’s is programmed to shut down at this temperature before and damage can be done to the unit.
The Alarm Code 6 is most often due to issues with the flow of seawater to the unit slowing or stopping all together.
What to do about a Seakeeper fault code 6
Verify the Boats seawater pump is on and supplying an adequate flow of seawater to the heat exchanger.
If there is no flow, start by checking sea cock is open and the strainer is free of debris.
Check the lines to and from the seawater pump and unit to be sure it is free of debris.
If you find no debris or clogs in the seawater line, it's possible that you need a new Seawater pump or that the issue lies somewhere within the unit itself. In this case, you will want to call your local dealer to troubleshoot and diagnose the unit.
Seakeeper alarm code 8 (coolant pump 1 fault)
This alarm indicates an issue with the Glycol Coolant Pump, which is found on every Seakeeper model. It could mean the pump is either unplugged or not functioning due to a faulty pump or wiring.
It is possible with air cavitation at the pump it may or may not pull current erratically and throw this alarm. Glycol flow can be confirmed by viewing fluid movement in the reservoir.
What to do about a Seakeeper fault code 8
Determine if the pump is running by sound or touch and if there is flow. Glycol flow can be confirmed by viewing fluid movement in the reservoir.
If the pump appears to be running but is noisy, then it is likely that there is air in the glycol loop. Top off glycol/water to reservoir and cycle the pump off for a few seconds the on again several times to purge the air.
If the pump is cavitating, super hot to the touch or is not running you must contact your local dealer to troubleshoot and diagnose the unit.
Note: In some cases the Code 8 can be caused by the same issues as the code 6. See code 6 info
Seakeeper alarm code 12, 13 and 14 (brake pressure low)
These alarms occur when hydraulic system pressure drops below approx. 72 PSI. If the fault can be reset but persistently occurs when processing it is likely there may be an actual oil leak.
If it cannot be reset at all, a component in that system has failed. The only way to troubleshoot and repair this code is through a Seakeeper Dealer with the proper tools and parts to check each component.
What to do about a Seakeeper fault codes 12, 13 and 14
Check all the duetsch plug connections to all sensors on the unit and make sure nothing is loose, then attempt to reset it and cycle power (I bet we sound like the cable company right now)
Inspect in and around your unit for obvious signs of oil. If you find oil take some photos and send them to your local dealer to expedite a Seakeeper service. A Seakeeper dealer will still need to attend to repair and clear this alarm code for you
Seakeeper alarm code 26 and 27 (valve faults)
These alarms are directly related to the solenoid valves on your unit and most usually happen due to a bad solenoid valve.
What to do about a Seakeeper fault codes 26 and 27
Please do nothing on your own and call your local dealer. These valves can get dangerously hot and present a burn warning to the skin. Do not reset your unit or attempt to clear the codes.
Seakeeper alarm code 37, 38 and 39 (travel and motion faults)
These alarms are most often due to a problem in the hydraulic system such as air or debris in the line but can be caused by other issues in the system. Oftentimes a simple annual service can clear these codes.
What to do about a Seakeeper fault codes 37, 38 and 39
Call your local dealer to troubleshoot and repair the issue; do not attempt to reset or clear these codes.
Seakeeper alarm code 40, 41, 42, 44 and 45 (power and electrical sensor faults)
These Seakeeper Alarm Codes are almost always due to what we call "boat side electrical issues". When we refer to "boat side" issues, we are referring to wiring, batteries and interference from other systems on the vessel that are not part of the actual Seakeeper itself and therefore would not be covered under your standard Seakeeper warranty. Note: Components installed with the Seakeeper are not included in the Seakeeper standard warranty but may be under warranty through your boat builder or installation company.
What to do about a Seakeeper fault codes 40, 41, 42, 44 and 45
We would recommend you or your regular servicing mechanic check your batteries, charging system, motors, generators, breakers and all potential boatside electrical issues prior to spending the money to have a seakeeper dealer come out and attempt diagnostics.
In our experience, 9 times out of ten, these Seakeeper error codes are battery and electrical related.
Seakeeper alarm code 50, 55 and 56 (angle sensor faults)
These alarms most often occur if the gyro angle goes to its end stop during precession, or if the unit "senses" the angle sensor is out of calibration.
What to do about a Seakeeper fault codes 50, 55 and 56
Unfortunately there is not much you can do here but call your local Seakeeper dealer to diagnose and repair the issue.
Seakeeper alarm code 82 and 83 (drive faults)
These alarms are triggered when the unit controller stops receiving power or communication from the drive itself. This oftentimes can mean there has been a loss of power coming into the unit itself or it could mean the unit drive box is not functioning as intended.
What to do about a Seakeeper fault codes 82 and 83
Reset and Cycle power
Check your breakers and all power sources are on and working as intended
If the above does not allow you to clear the code and continue, call your local Seakeeper dealer for diagnostics
We do not recommend attempting any kind of diagnostic when dealing with a Seakeeper alarm code 82 or 83 as they relate to AC power. Please call your local Seakeeper dealer to assist.
Seakeeper alarm code 98 (AC mains low)
The drive is reporting to the Computer that the AC power flow has fallen lower than 80 VAC.
This code only occurs on AC powered Seakeeper Units 5 and above and is disabled on Seakeeper Units 3 and below.
This code most commonly occurs when a boat owner is switching from Shore Power to Generator power or, vice versa. When the switch of power source is not completed fast enough for the Seakeeper sensor's liking, it throws up code 98.
What to do about a Seakeeper fault code 98
Reset and Cycle power
Check your breakers and all power sources are on and working as intended
If the above does not allow you to clear the code and continue, call your local Seakeeper dealer for diagnostics
We do not recommend attempting any kind of diagnostic into this code as it relates to AC power so please call your local Seakeeper dealer to assist.
Seakeeper alarm code 251 (no connection to gyro)
This alarm code suggests the Seakeeper display has lost its connection or communication with the Seakeeper
A common cause for this alarm is the loosening of a display cable, cable connection or adapter.
Other causes can be the need for a software update , a failure in the display plug, or ECU connection issues.
What to do about a Seakeeper fault code 251
Clear and Cycle power
You may attempt to check all of your display connections and your deutch plug connections at the unit to be sure nothing is loose.
If none of the above clears your alarm code, you should call your local Seakeeper dealer to come and diagnose.
Key takeaways on Seakeeper fault codes
Seakeeper alarm codes serve as valuable indicators of potential faults and errors within the Seakeeper units, safeguarding them from potential damage. When encountering these Seakeeper problems, addressing the underlying issues promptly and accurately is essential to ensure the optimal functionality and longevity of the system.
By following the recommended troubleshooting steps provided in this article and seeking professional assistance from authorized Seakeeper dealers when needed, boat owners can effectively manage and resolve these alarm codes.
Regular maintenance ( Annual Services) and diligent attention to potential electrical and mechanical issues will contribute to the uninterrupted enjoyment of the Seakeeper experience. If you have questions about your Seakeeper or need assistance, we have convenient offices in Tampa, Naples, Miami, Florida Keys as well as our main Seakeeper Fort Lauderdale location.