Autopilot display- where to mount?

stiffwind · #1 (**permalink**) 11-15-2011

Looking for some advice on whether to mount autopilot display on helm instrument table, or flush mount into cockpit bulkhead? Obviously, it is more protected with the flush mount option...but is the more secure location all that necessary? And yes I will be going offshore in my Passport 37'

tdw · #2 (**permalink**) 11-15-2011

Quote:

Originally Posted by stiffwind

Looking for some advice on whether to mount autopilot display on helm instrument table, or flush mount into cockpit bulkhead? Obviously, it is more protected with the flush mount option...but is the more secure location all that necessary? And yes I will be going offshore in my Passport 37'

Are the control integral to the display ? If so then you need to be able to reach it easily.

sck5 · #3 (**permalink**) 11-15-2011

watch where you put it on the cockpit bulkhead. Mine was installed right where I brace my knee when heaving on the furling line which is a pain - will have to move it.

DwayneSpeer · #4 (**permalink**) 11-17-2011

It seems to me that the answer is dependent upon two things.
1. Do you need to be able to read information on the display while at the helm?
2. Do you control the pilot from the display?

If either is yes then the display needs to be close by the helm.

noelex77 · #5 (**permalink**) 11-17-2011

You need to be able to reach the autopilot controls easily from the wheel / tilller

stiffwind · #6 (**permalink**) 11-17-2011

Thanks to everyone for the input. Because of yard schedules, I didn't have much time to waffle. The display has been flush mounted just aft of my engine control box in the starboard cockpit bulkhead where it should be safe and secure. It is not a device that needs to be constantly controlled other than the "off" and "on". And it will be just an arm's lengh away. I figured if I ever had to change the helm configuration or any major repairs had to be made to the steering quadrant or rudder controls then I would not have to worry about having to remove the display or wiring. In addition, I am able to purchase a remote which will likely be kept in my pocket or strapped to my person...especially when single-handing.

creedence623 · #7 (**permalink**) 11-22-2011

I did the same thing recently, and it has worked out really well on the cockpit coaming. Would I have rather had it mounted on a nav pod at the helm? Sure, but there are a million things I'd rather have along with it. Everything is a compromise, and at the end of the day I think the autopilot control head mounted on the coaming is a pretty good one.

What kind of autopilot did you install?