Re: autopilots
 

Chuck thanks for the review I ordered one yesterday for the TB.

Re: autopilots
 

chuck, I have a question for you on the raymarine pilot
where did you mount the computer so that it was able to receive the signals
from the remote control, will it shoot thru into the center console or did you have to mount it somewhere on the exterior with a clear view to the remote

also, it says that you have to maintain 3knts for 30 seconds to activate the unit, after this period does the unit still work at say 2-1/2 knts or is it only usable over 3 knts. the online stuff I read is a little cloudy

Re: autopilots
 

I have a 8" wide shelf with 4" rail in front of it. It spans the width of the console inside. I secured a 12" x 18" x 1/2" PVC board against the face of the shelf for mounting of the computer & other backup gauges.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v1...k/DSCN3045.jpg


I mounted the pump on the stbd side inside of the console so an easy run of fluid lines to the SeaStar Helm lines was achieved.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v1...k/DSCN3046.jpg


Here is a shot of the "T" connections of the Seastar Helm & Auto Pilot Hyd Lines.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v1...k/DSCN3048.jpg




The remote shoots thru the the console whether I am on the bow or the stern without issues. I have tied it in via (NEMA) into my chart recorder where as I can point and shoot a spot on the chart or enter a waypoint and hit "Auto" and off I go. It really comes in handy when your securing lines, fighting a fish and setting up baits. If I was facing 180* away from my target way point, the bow swings around and puts me right on. Another cool feature is that lets say you hook up on fish, you can mark the spot and after you have finished the fight and want to return to that spot, it will take you back and either "Zig-Zag", "Figue-8" or "Circle" that spot for you in large or small patterns.

After the install, You need to take your boat out (windy and choppy weather is best) and the computer will walk you thru the "Learning Process of your boat" This reduces yawing and off course tracking errors. All instructions, Tools, Video, Fluid etc comes with the package. You won't be disappointed.

I don't think it is constant. Sometimes I have lost signal at low speed and sometimes it doesn't. You can hear the pump working when you are @ low speed and thats when it might drop the Auto Pilot. I don't work baits that slow, so I don't get too concerned. For the $$ compared to Simrad or the like , it's well worth it, especially since you just hook up to your hyd helm lines & you don't have a linear rudder like in inboards.

I hope this helps in your decision making :cool:

Re: autopilots
 

Way to go Capt. Chuck.......deeper into my check book I go!!!! This is too cool and besides, I've been thinking about one of these. I figure the odds of hitting something 25 miles out is rather slim, no matter how many beers. :cool:

Re: autopilots
 

This one must cost a pretty penny but much easier to install however maintenance might become an issue! :D

Re: autopilots