Joined
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253 Posts
So far My opinion is mixed. Installed the SPX-5 myself. Had to redo parts of the install due to the instructions being wrong.
Have about 400nm in the unit. Steers a decent course. Much louder than I anticipated. Disturbs the silence/serenity of sailing at times. At times it steering seems excessive to maintain course. The AutoTack function is my current irritation. Not configurable, only tacks 90 degrees. Tacks slowly killing boat speed and doesn't progress a few extra degrees before heading up to facilitate headsail fill.
Gripes aside, for the relatively low price it's been great to be free of the tyranny of steering. Now freed up to trim sails or help chase the kids around the boat. Also an essential piece of equipment for singlehand ing.
Josh
Have about 400nm in the unit. Steers a decent course. Much louder than I anticipated. Disturbs the silence/serenity of sailing at times. At times it steering seems excessive to maintain course. The AutoTack function is my current irritation. Not configurable, only tacks 90 degrees. Tacks slowly killing boat speed and doesn't progress a few extra degrees before heading up to facilitate headsail fill.
Gripes aside, for the relatively low price it's been great to be free of the tyranny of steering. Now freed up to trim sails or help chase the kids around the boat. Also an essential piece of equipment for singlehand ing.
Josh