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For whatever reason, if a compass adjustment is required, then there are several steps you
can take before calling in the compass adjuster. These can be done alongside and are
detailed below.
By carrying out these checks and adjustments it will minimise the time that is
required for adjustment when the vessel is at sea.
When making adjustments at sea, remember that course alterations should be slow
and steady, and the gyro error should be checked on each heading to ensure greater
accuracy. The gyro should be set up for the correct speed and latitude and the signal
flags Oscar Quebec should be displayed.
1. Adjust the heeling magnet while on a N/S heading until an average minimum
is achieved.
2. On a cardinal heading (say E), remove all deviation using the fore-and-aft B
magnets.
3. Come to a south heading, adjust the athwartships C magnets to remove all
deviation.
4. Come to a westerly heading and remove half the deviation with the B (fore
and aft) magnets
5. Come to a northerly heading and remove half the deviation using the
athwartships C magnets.
6. Come to an intercardinal heading (say NE), and correct all deviation by
moving the spheres in or out.
7. Come to the next intercardinal heading (say SE) and remove half the
observed deviation using the spheres. A more accurate result can be achieved
by making these adjustments on all four intercardinal headings.
8. Secure all correctors before swinging the ship to determine residual deviations.
Do this on as many headings as desired. Bowditch states that the eight
cardinal and intercardinal headings would be sufficient.
9. If there are any huge deviations still in the compass, then the adjustments
should be made again.
10. Record the deviations and the position of the correctors and post them on the
deviation card.