There are a dizzying array of options available for autopilot systems, which can make choosing the best for your yacht a daunting task. Some manufacturers offer a wide range of products covering everything from outboard powered fishing boats to large motor yachts, and it can be difficult to choose the ones that are ideal for medium sized sailing yachts. Likewise, you may be able to keep some elements of your existing system, such as the command module and control panels, which will reduce the cost of upgrading your autopilot. Many systems are sold as bundles, which can add confusion. However, these things make a lot more sense once you know the basic elements – especially the compass, 9-axis sensor or of course the computer – most boats would benefit from an upgrade. Mixing Brands on Autopilots? Although many items from different brands will communicate with each other, it makes sense to limit the variety as much as possible to avoid any problems. However, there is usually no need for the drive units to be of the same brand as the rest of the system. Before you go shopping, review the elements of your current autopilot system—and what would benefit from replacement. 1. Drive Units Located below DeckThese are key to getting good pilot performance and maximizing reliability. However, in many ways, the physical means of turning the rudder have changed little over the past decade or two. Whether driven directly by an electric motor, or by hydraulics, they are non-intelligent components that simply respond to variable 12V (or 24V) outputs from the course computer. The two basic choices are between hydraulic, electro-mechanical units and between a linear or rotary motor. Linear drives are used to connect directly to the quarter and are the most common type, especially on relatively new boats. Rotary engines can drive a gear wheel where the steering system includes a chain drive. However, the latter can be more powerful, so is typically found on larger yachts. Garmin offers a number of linear drives, including the A-Series mechanical linear drives (£1,600) for yachts up to 12,900kg. The company's B-series units include a compact 22-tonne model, while the standard-sized model will handle a loaded displacement of 35.8 tons. Likewise, Raymarine Mechanical Linear Actuators (£1800-2065) are offered in three sizes for boats with displacements of up to 11,000kg, 15,000kg and 20,000kg. On top of this a hydraulic motor will be needed. 2. Tiller Pilots These naturally fall into two different categories – all-in-one units that include a basic course computer, a flow compass, and a control panel and, in some cases, a one-line display. Some can also interact with other on-board electronics.
Raymarine's ST1000 (£525) and ST2000 (£630) are basic all-in-one models for boats up to 3,000kg and 4,500kg respectively. They are now older units that include only a basic flow compass and limited connectivity via Raymarine's original SeaTalk, or NMEA0183 for GPS and apparent wind data. If you can spend more, there are better options available. Raymarine's EV-100 Tiller Pilot is a motor-only unit for boats up to 6,000kg that can be paired with an ACU-100 course computer and an EV-1 9-axis sensor. It is therefore able to steer a much better course than the ST1000/2000 models, although it will not match the performance of the below deck system because it is impossible to mount a rudder angle sensor. The EV-100 tiller is priced at £1,365 and comes with the ACU-100 computer of course, the EV-1 sensor and cable set, although a controller is still required. The TP10 (£470) is a basic standalone model for small boats, while the TP22 (£610) and TP32 (£760) can operate either in standalone mode, or connected to the network using wind instruments and/or separate hookups via the NMEA0183 or 2000. They are suitable for boats up to 34' and 37' respectively. Related Articles to Boating/Fishing Simrad Marine Autopilot Errors How Do Marine Autopilots Work? Carbon Fiber vs. Aluminum Outriggers Selection of Outriggers : How to Choose the Best Outrigger Should You Get Trim Tabs on Your Boat?
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Everything you need to know about autopilots and self-guiding equipment, how they work, what features to look for and how to choose what suits your needs. An effective autopilot will transform life on board. In an ideal world, you just push a button or two, and the boat will go straight. However, a different combination of wind and waves will time and time again cause the boat to go off course. This means that there is a lot that goes into an autopilot, both in how it works and how to select the most appropriate components for a particular boat. How do autopilots work on a boat? Before deciding to choose Autopilot, it is important to understand the six main components of the system:
Basic Autopilot Modules The simplest electric marine autopilots are the integrated primary pilots which require only a 12V power supply and the equivalent primary pilots mounted externally on the wheel base. If sized properly, it can work adequately on small boats, especially in easy conditions when a pilot is useful. However, this aircraft may not operate in severe weather in which a small crew is likely to be dependent on the pilot. A simple deck pilot may be fine in easy conditions, but it will be vulnerable to water entry and may not be able to handle rough seas. The basic unit's lack of both a gyrocompass (and rate sensor) and rudder angle sensor, means they are unable to respond quickly and will struggle to keep the boat on course, especially in turbulent seas. There may also be an additional problem that they may not be quick at turning the helm. These deck units are also susceptible to failure as a result of water ingress. However, it is still a useful starting point for a budget and can be kept later as a reserve for use in case problems arise with a more advanced system.
If you're doing serious cruising and choosing an electric pilot, it's important to get the best one you can afford. These are invariably units located below deck, with a gyroscopic or rate-sensing compass, a separate pilot computer and a heel sensor. Some newer models combine these functions in one unit, usually with a nine-axis sensor. Related Articles to Fishing/Boating: Most Important Considerations when Choosing a Marine Autopilot Carbon Fiber vs. Aluminum Outriggers Selection of Outriggers : How to Choose the Best Outrigger Why do Trim Tabs on a Boat Fail? Should You Get Trim Tabs on Your Boat? |
AuthorGreetings! I am Talha, your go-to marine expert, bringing years of invaluable knowledge and experience to the world of marine accessories and journeys. Our passion for the sea extends beyond the horizon, and we are dedicated to sharing our expertise to enhance your boating experience. Categories
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