Which Auto Pilot?

[brak]

Originally Posted by camaraderie

Brak...it is an electrically driven hydraulic pump which actuates the linear piston. The ram is tied to the steering quadrant through a bolted joint. Valving takes it out of the circuit when the AP is not steering and the ram merely slides freely back and forth. It is much faster than the screw type mechanisms and I believe more powerful and reliable under long term load.

curious. that was always something I wondered. I have hydraulic steering and autopilot and there it is simple - if steering does not move the ram - autopilot pump does. I had trouble simulating the separate ram behavior (I connected one side to the other - but could not get it to move freely).
Anyway, I see the point and it looks like a nice all in one setup.

[ozsailer]

Originally Posted by sailingdog

I wouldn't go with a hydraulic ram since you have a cable and quadrant system. Unless the boat is really heavy, I would go with a linear drive below deck autopilot. Hydraulics only really make sense on a really heavy boat with hydraulic steering IMHO. How much does the Chieftain displace??

Hello all,
thanks for the replies, The chieftain displaces approximatley 8 ton. I must admit I was taken with the guy from Simrad he really knew his product and did mention that they had taken over from Robinsons. I spoke with the Raymarine people today and arranged to take the boat to the local marina next week for a quote and work out how it could be fitted. Price is not really an issue, well it is but with an auto pilot I figure spending a few extra bucks for a good unit is a good investment in keeping us safe at sea.


Greg and Sue
Land down under