[JimsCAL]

Have ordered from both and they are both reliable. Defender does have free shipping over $99.

 

[JimsCAL]

I have an old (Autohelm 4000) wheel pilot on my 11,000 lb Cal 33-2. Not sure if it's original to when the boat was new, but I have gotten 15 years of service out of it. My experience with autopilots is that you have to balance the helm as best you can. Too much weather helm is going to cause problems. I keep on eye on the wheel position and if I see it is cranking on too much rudder angle to maintain the course I know it is time to do some sail trim.