Hydraulic autopilot R21EC
- Thread starter JoSmo
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bob daily
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Joe, it would be easier and less expensive to go with a mechanical automatic steering option rather than hydraulic.
Check out the Octopus autopilot for cable steering @ Octopusdrives.com
Bob
Check out the Octopus autopilot for cable steering @ Octopusdrives.com
Bob
bob daily
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None that I’m aware of, most of the smaller sail boats use them also has a remote that is point and go which would be great for fishing. I would check out the Garman Reactor-40 retrofit for cable steering system. Most auto pilots are the same you just have to hook them up to the cable system on your boat and that is where the Octopus helm is needed. I was going to install an auto pilot on my boat but never got around to it (yet) as I have too many projects started that I need to finish first.
I think I estimated the cost at about $3,000
Lots of info on the website! Let me/us know how the upgrade goes. Bob
I think I estimated the cost at about $3,000
Lots of info on the website! Let me/us know how the upgrade goes. Bob
Full_O_Fish
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In course keeping operation the mechanical and hydraulic systems are effectively the same. The main difference would come down to noise and override capability.
The mechanical pilots whether remote or integrated into a rotary helm all use clutches to engage and disengage, so when the pilot is in use the steering wheel will be actively spinning/rotating as if steered by hand. While engaged there is no way to override the pilot other than to hit the standby button before taking the helm to make a course change or dodge something. Generally it's also a bit noisy since it's all metal gears going back and both.
Hydraulic systems the pump units can be mounted virtually anywhere and are already very quiet while operating (some people forget the pilot is still on after they stop making way). Also because the helm pumps have check valves internally the steering wheel will not ("should not" unless there's an issue) rotate or move while the pilot is in operation meaning there is no worry of getting hands, or other objects caught in the wheel suddenly. Both Simrad and Garmin pilot systems have optional components that can be plumbed into the hydraulic system to allow the pilot to disengage freely if you take the wheel and make an adjustment to change course or avoid something. Without that part you could theoretically turn the wheel hard/fast enough to overcome the pilot, but it is not recommended and can potentially cause problems, however anything it might cause would still be better than not being able to avoid something and crashing the vessel...
The mechanical pilots whether remote or integrated into a rotary helm all use clutches to engage and disengage, so when the pilot is in use the steering wheel will be actively spinning/rotating as if steered by hand. While engaged there is no way to override the pilot other than to hit the standby button before taking the helm to make a course change or dodge something. Generally it's also a bit noisy since it's all metal gears going back and both.
Hydraulic systems the pump units can be mounted virtually anywhere and are already very quiet while operating (some people forget the pilot is still on after they stop making way). Also because the helm pumps have check valves internally the steering wheel will not ("should not" unless there's an issue) rotate or move while the pilot is in operation meaning there is no worry of getting hands, or other objects caught in the wheel suddenly. Both Simrad and Garmin pilot systems have optional components that can be plumbed into the hydraulic system to allow the pilot to disengage freely if you take the wheel and make an adjustment to change course or avoid something. Without that part you could theoretically turn the wheel hard/fast enough to overcome the pilot, but it is not recommended and can potentially cause problems, however anything it might cause would still be better than not being able to avoid something and crashing the vessel...
bob daily
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The octopus auto steering system has a clutch system that allows you to override the system in case of emergency! With what I’ve seen and heard from others reviews it’s about as noisy as turning the steering wheel!
I would do a good review and talk to the manufacturer with any questions, there phone number is on there web site and were very happy to answer any questions that I had. Bob
I would do a good review and talk to the manufacturer with any questions, there phone number is on there web site and were very happy to answer any questions that I had. Bob
I have a Octopus / Intellisteer / Raymarine autopilot setup on my R21-EC that works well (and is quiet). I have a remote so I can steer from anywhere which I rarely use and the autopilot which I use all the time. What I don't have is remote throttle and gear change which would be fun.
Intellisteer by Octopus: Type S/T
Intellisteer by Octopus. Type S/T: For Cable Steered Boats with a Dash Mounted Wheel. Replaces existing helm. Electronic clutch disengages for manual steering Rotary drive system. Fits behind dash. Type S for straight shaft helms, Type T for helms with tilt function. Safety override technology...
octopusdrives.com
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Thanks for the advice. One octopus intellisteer on order... Now, which autopilot have you guys had experience with and what do you recommend?I have a Octopus / Intellisteer / Raymarine autopilot setup on my R21-EC that works well (and is quiet). I have a remote so I can steer from anywhere which I rarely use and the autopilot which I use all the time. What I don't have is remote throttle and gear change which would be fun.
Intellisteer by Octopus: Type S/T
Intellisteer by Octopus. Type S/T: For Cable Steered Boats with a Dash Mounted Wheel. Replaces existing helm. Electronic clutch disengages for manual steering Rotary drive system. Fits behind dash. Type S for straight shaft helms, Type T for helms with tilt function. Safety override technology...