2007 21-EC Autopilot

[mudpup]

I searched around a bit but I am somewhat confused. I am a new owner of an 2007 21-ec and would like to install an autopilot. The Raymarine St1000 would have what sort connection or steerage interface on my boat? A wheel or a mechanical drive? Whats the easist installation. I am not concerned with a rudder indicator.


I look forward to using the boat in Charlotte Harbor and the Lee Islands in the winters.


Thanks in advance,

mudpup

 

[mudpup]

never mind. I will just ask some useless obsessive compulsive question about champagne staining my hull.

 

[SlackwaterJack]

Maybe you should be looking for a Raymarine SmartPilot SPX-5R that mounts between the wheel and the helm? Try the Raymarine website for additional info, I pretty sure that can answer your basic questions.

There's one thing I'm very certain of though....the reason you didn't name your boat "Patience".

 

[j&lgray]

For anyone else who is curious, we have the S1000 system on the Laurie Ann and did our own install. This system ties into the hydraulic lines between the wheel and the rudder assembly. An electric pump, with a course computer that interfaces with the boat's GPS system (you have to have one) and is controlled by a wireless remote that you can walk around with. Pretty cool little system. However, it was out of production for awhile and finding a unit took a little research.

 

[Gregg]

I believe the smartpilot for mechanical steering is your best (and maybe only ) option from Raymarine because the 21 is not hydraulically steered. We originally looked at the sportpilot, which at the time seemed to be our only option, but for a variety of reasons ended changing out the steering and install the hydraulic pilot, which works very well.
Gregg
http://www.raymarine.com:80/ProductDeta ... ODUCT=4177

 

[rustednail]

😱 I didn't know champagne could stain my hull - Good thing I drink beer! :mrgreen:

I've been thinking about adding autopilot to my R21EC, to assist with those long runs of following seas. Here is what I have found so far:

Simrad's AP12R and AP14R systems have been discontinued and are no longer available. I like this system because it was complete with course computer and helm drive. It replaced the rotary drive behind the helm and made for a clean above deck install.

Raymarine Sportpilot SPX-5R Currently available. Mounts behind helm, but in front of panel. Shifts steering wheel aft, toward the pilots seat, four inches. I may have to lose a little weight to be comfortable 😳 . Seems expensive.

http://octopusmarine.ca/content/ Has a drive unit similar to Simrad's, but have not found dealer or pricing information. I have submitted an inquiry with them, but have not received a response. If I am reading their site correctly, it looks like it will work with most other manufactures course computers. That question was part of my inquiry and hopefully they will answer. I will post here when they do.