Just pulled the trigger on a new Ranger Gray 2016 R-21EC

[andrew]

Hi Barry, I don't know if the wiper motor can be moved during construction, it would not be practical after the boat is built.
I think the new position of the steering wheel may be better, but I won't know until it is installed
Andrew

 

[baz]

Update... concerning the Simrad AP24 unit.

After communicating with Andrew Custis about the Simrad AP24 installation he told me this AP unit is not compatible with my 2016 R-21EC and recommended I cancel the Simrad AP24 order I made. I have done so and was lucky enough to catch it before it actually was shipped. I will have my money back by tomorrow. 🙂

Andrew Custis was afraid that this Simrad AP24 will not work without serious modification (not sure what the modifications would be as Andrew did not say) to the 2016 R-21EC boat. The Simrad AP24 employs the Octopus pump.

Andrew suggested I locate a leftover Raymarine SportPilot instead as it's drive fits conveniently behind the stock R-21EC wheel and presumably requires no extensive or unmanageable modifications. Also, since Ranger Tugs has in the past employed the Raymarine SportPilot SPX-5 for the R-21EC the chances of it not working would not present an issue. Andrew suggest getting the Raymarine p70R Control Head for it's more modern look and its rotary knob rather than the push buttons on the older style p70 Control Head.

The Raymarine SportPilot will mean the wheel will be some 2" closer to the helm seat, but I believe this will not be an issue for me as sitting on the boat I had some 3" of clearance between my knees and the wheel, plus I can always place the knees apart to either side of the wheel or simply stand as I have a tendency to do any rate. 🙂

I suspect my cost for the Raymarine SportPilot to come to around $2,100, and of course I'll install it myself.

 

[SGIDAVE]

Hello Barry,

Here's another un-ask-for suggestion...

Have the factory install hydraulic steering from the get-go.

Then, install the Raymarine EV-100 (less than $1400 at defender.com) if the hydraulic steering cylinder is less than 9 cu inches volume. IF the ram is larger, you'll need the EV-200 which is more money.

If you go with ANY raymarine AP, I would recommend including a Raymarine MFD (display) in your electronics package...reason being that the computerized systems used in the AP require periodic "software updates" which can ONLY be performed via the card slot on the Raymarine display. Been there done that...Oh, the other option is But I'm VERY pleased with the EVolution AP after 1 year's use. It interfaces with the Garmin 740 and the Simrad NSS8 seamlessly. It DID require an 'update' to get all the bugs out. I suspect ALL APs will have that in common.

A 'side' benefit of having an AP is that, when you add radar, the flux gate compass used in the AP will be used by the radar (Simrad 3G, in my case) to provide map overlay and MARPA capabilities. That's a result of the N2K network...all those separate 'pieces' talk to each other. Very cool.

dave

 

[baz]

Update... concerning the Simrad AP24 unit.
...snip...

Andrew suggested I locate a leftover Raymarine SportPilot instead as it's drive fits conveniently behind the stock R-21EC wheel and presumably requires no extensive or unmanageable modifications. Also, since Ranger Tugs has in the past employed the Raymarine SportPilot SPX-5 for the R-21EC the chances of it not working would not present an issue. Andrew suggest getting the Raymarine p70R Control Head for it's more modern look and its rotary knob rather than the push buttons on the older style p70 Control Head.

The Raymarine SportPilot will mean the wheel will be some 2" closer to the helm seat, but I believe this will not be an issue for me as sitting on the boat I had some 3" of clearance between my knees and the wheel, plus I can always place the knees apart to either side of the wheel or simply stand as I have a tendency to do any rate. 🙂

I suspect my cost for the Raymarine SportPilot to come to around $2,100, and of course I'll install it myself.

I was lucky enough to find a Raymarine SportPilot SPX5-R that included the Control Head p70R (the p70R has the rotary knob feature). The seller indicated "just a damaged box, and all items still in their plastic packages" so hopefully even though marked as used it's really new. 😎 Cost was $1625 plus S&H of $20. Now all I have to do is to install it nicely and to Ranger Tugs (Andrew's) standards. :lol: I feel fortunate to have found this SportPilot with the p70R as the p70R by itself runs at around $510. Also, these SportPilots seem to be pretty rare and of course Raymarine no longer makes them. I did call Raymarine about warranty for this product and they indicated it will be covered... 😎 😀

 

[SGIDAVE]

Update... concerning the Simrad AP24 unit.
...snip...

Andrew suggested I locate a leftover Raymarine SportPilot instead as it's drive fits conveniently behind the stock R-21EC wheel and presumably requires no extensive or unmanageable modifications. Also, since Ranger Tugs has in the past employed the Raymarine SportPilot SPX-5 for the R-21EC the chances of it not working would not present an issue. Andrew suggest getting the Raymarine p70R Control Head for it's more modern look and its rotary knob rather than the push buttons on the older style p70 Control Head.

The Raymarine SportPilot will mean the wheel will be some 2" closer to the helm seat, but I believe this will not be an issue for me as sitting on the boat I had some 3" of clearance between my knees and the wheel, plus I can always place the knees apart to either side of the wheel or simply stand as I have a tendency to do any rate. 🙂

I suspect my cost for the Raymarine SportPilot to come to around $2,100, and of course I'll install it myself.

I was lucky enough to find a Raymarine SportPilot SPX5-R that included the Control Head p70R (the p70R has the rotary knob feature). The seller indicated "just a damaged box, and all items still in their plastic packages" so hopefully even though marked as used it's really new. 😎 Cost was $1625 plus S&H of $20. Now all I have to do is to install it nicely and to Ranger Tugs (Andrew's) standards. :lol: I feel fortunate to have found this SportPilot with the p70R as the p70R by itself runs at around $510. Also, these SportPilots seem to be pretty rare and of course Raymarine no longer makes them. I did call Raymarine about warranty for this product and they indicated it will be covered... 😎 😀

That sounds like an EV-200 AP. That's what I have and it is really nice kit. As soon as you get your hands on it, I'd advise sending it to Raymarine for software updates. It is a virtual certainty it is in need of an update. That is, unless you have a Raymarine MFD with which to do your own updates, you can use this time waiting on the build of your 21EC and send it back to Ray...I think it's free - you pay for just postage.

If you follow the raymarine technical assistance forum...the FIRST answer they give to ANY problem is to update the software. In fact, for the few who actually read the instructions on the forum, they tell you to ensure you have the most up to date software BEFORE posting questions about trouble you may be having.

Will you have the factory install the Garmin MFD?

/dave

 

[baz]

Thanks... 🙂
Not sure about my Raymarine SmartPilot SPX5-R being same as your EV-200 AP.... but dunno with all these various AP names floating about.

Hmmmm, yes software updates will surely be something to do to have latest versions etc. I presume the software updates are for the SmartPilot's Computer. Does the p70R Controller Head also get software updates ?

What's the URL for the RM Tech Assistance forum ?

Yes, I selected the Navigation Package Garmin GPSMAP 741XS which has a 7" touch screen.

 

[SGIDAVE]

Thanks... 🙂
Not sure about my Raymarine SmartPilot SPX5-R being same as your EV-200 AP.... but dunno with all these various AP names floating about.

Hmmmm, yes software updates will surely be something to do to have latest versions etc. I presume the software updates are for the SmartPilot's Computer. Does the p70R Controller Head also get software updates ?

What's the URL for the RM Tech Assistance forum ?

Yes, I selected the Navigation Package Garmin GPSMAP 741XS which has a 7" touch screen.

Helly Barry,

If your AP has a roundish, white component ("flux gate compass" but ray calls it something fancier) about 6-7" dia x 1-1.25 thick...you have an EV autopilot. IF the compass a black gizmo approx 3" dia x 3" tall then it is the pre-EV kit. I had that set up on my previous boat and it works well...it used the tiny NMEA 0183 protocol wires though which was a bit fussy connecting to the GArmin, but doable. That was 4-5 years ago so maybe yours is N2K compliant.

The 741XS is a VERY nice unit!

Raymarine technical forum: http://raymarine.ning.com/forum
As you scroll down on the home page you will see separate forums for various bits of equipment...there is an AP forum, for instance. Interesting reading if you're bored. As to updates...the p70r, course computer, and the EV compass (if you have it) will need updates.

dave

 

[baz]

The box is labeled "SmartPilot SPX5-R - Helm Mounted Autopilot System".
The box description states The SmartPilot SPX5-R is SeaTalk, SeaTalkng, NMEA2000 and NMEA0183 compatible.
The compass is called "Fluxgate Compass" and is round and black.

The Seller claims this Raymarine product was purchased in 2012 from Raymarine and was never used/installed. I'm guessing it's no more than 3 yrs since original purchase.

Thanks for the URL for the RM tech forum.

 

[SGIDAVE]

The box is labeled "SmartPilot SPX5-R - Helm Mounted Autopilot System".
The box description states The SmartPilot SPX5-R is SeaTalk, SeaTalkng, NMEA2000 and NMEA0183 compatible.
The compass is called "Fluxgate Compass" and is round and black.

The Seller claims this Raymarine product was purchased in 2012 from Raymarine and was never used/installed. I'm guessing it's no more than 3 yrs since original purchase.

Thanks for the URL for the RM tech forum.

Ok, if it's NMEA 2000 compliant, then you are in GOOD SHAPE. Installation is truly 'plug and play.' If you set up a RM N2K network, which they call SeatalkNG (which means Seatalk next gen), you will need the RM adaptor cable called a Devisenet cable, model A06075 which is the 1m cable...it comes in a 400 mm length too. Defender.com has had the best prices on RM N2K cabling in my experience.

This (http://www.defender.com/product3.jsp?pa ... id=1108756) is the 400mm cable.

Setting up the N2K network is...sorta fun. Since the cables are pricey, doodling it out on paper is cheaper.

dave

 

[baz]

I'm starting to read and understand the installation for the SmartPilot SPX5-R.

1) Is the R-21EC's steering shaft a 3/4" or 1" diameter ?

2) I intend to install the Course Computer behind the refrigerator to provide a nice 'hidden' installation design per Andrews specifications. This means pulling the refrigerator which I'm told is a 5-10 minute job. Anyone done this and how did it go and any tips available. I'm assuming it is connected to a 12v supply so don't want to disturb this when removing the refrigerator. 🙂

3) I will mount the Fluxgate compass in the starboard V-berth storage area. I will locate it as far down as possible to be vertical and as close to the pitch and rolling center of the R-21EC. I will run the wiring from there over to the Course computer behind the refrigerator.

4) The p70R Control Head will of course be mounted on the console surface alongside the Garmin 741XS display unit. I know the bow thruster toggle is on the console to one side of the 741XS so I will have to decide the best location of the p70R... maybe to the left of the 741XS will be suitable... but dunno at this time.

5) I'll need some time to figure out how best to connect the Course Computer to the boat's Garmin NMEA 2000 network. I'm hoping Andrew will assist me with this. 😉 I'll need to 'gen up' on the Raymarine's Seatalk-to-NMEA 2000 networking.

6) There appears to be no need for a rudder sensor at this time.

 

[baz]

Since I'll have the factory installed Nav Package Garmin GPS 741XS can this MFD be used to update the Raymarine SmartPilot SPX5-R components (p70R Control Head, Fluxgate Compass and the X5 Course Computer) ? I assume the drive unit does not have any software, right ?

I've called around my area for Raymarine shops and have in fact found one that I can take the SmartPilot to before unboxing it to have the software brought up to date. Good deal... 🙂 I've talked to two Raymarine shops and both were very helpful and friendly... this is a good start IMO for Raymarine Customer Service.

 

[SGIDAVE]

Since I'll have the factory installed Nav Package Garmin GPS 741XS can this MFD be used to update the Raymarine SmartPilot SPX5-R components (p70R Control Head, Fluxgate Compass and the X5 Course Computer) ? I assume the drive unit does not have any software, right ?

I've called around my area for Raymarine shops and have in fact found one that I can take the SmartPilot to before unboxing it to have the software brought up to date. Good deal... 🙂 I've talked to two Raymarine shops and both were very helpful and friendly... this is a good start IMO for Raymarine Customer Service.

Hello Barry,

You are in good shape if you can get the software updated locally. I don't think the wheel drive itself gets updated.

No, unfortunately, you can't update the RM gear via the Garmin 741. I've tried...Garmin sells an N2K updater which consists of an SD card reader with an N2K pigtail such that you plug it into your N2K network (GARMIN Network, that is) and it 'updates things.' That does not work with the RM components on the network. RM has you by the shorthairs - one of their MFDs is req'd to do software updates to the AP components.

dave

 

[baz]

The local Raymarine service shop will do the updates and charge me for 1 hour of their time. The alternative is to ship the SmartPilot to Raymarine's service center Raymarine Service Center, 9 Townsend West, Nashua, NH 03063 and would have to pay S&H both ways even though their Software Update service is free. My preference is to goto my local Raymarine shop. 🙂 I should receive my SmartPilot next Monday.

 

[Jake]

Barry,

Congrats on the new 21EC, a lot of boat for the money. Just wondering if you know of any changes for the 2016 model year?

Jake

 

[baz]

I can't say for sure what changes were made for 2016. What I can say is

• 1) The water run-off channels on either side of the Pilot House roof are now turned outwards at their end points to allow water to fall off the side rather than into the cockpit area. This same change has been made for the other RT models.
  
  2) Some minor movement of accessories such as the toggle switch for the bow thruster to side of the Garmin MFD, cigarette lighter receptacle located to front of side of throttle console facing the V-berth.
  
  3) Alcohol stove vs. butane stove
  
  4) More options (style and colors) for Bimini and side enclosures
  
  5) With the Volvo Penta D1 engine it's possible to install the Volvo NMEA 2K Gateway so that engine Coolant temp, Oil pressure, RPMs, Battery voltage can be monitored on the Garmin MFD. It will also allow controls for the VHF radio and the Fusion radio.
  
  6) Maybe more color choices for the hull and pilot house eye brows.
  
  7) Raymarine Autopilot no longer an option. If you want one it is a DIY project (see above for how I'm dealing with this).

 

[LADY JANE]

Congratulations on your new R-21EC. We bought a new one too, last year. The only thing I've noticed with mine are those engine hoses getting worn thin in the places that that are vibrating against STUFF. When you open the Bonnet, look around and check to see where the hoses are touching anything & that's where they'll wear down from the Diesel 3-banger vibration. Check again in 50 hrs of run time. That's where my engine Is now. I'm not being over critical, or trying to argue with anybody about this issue. It's just a heads up on the only thing that really needs to be addressed. I'll post photos tomorrow to show where my lines have been chafing. Some boats will have more or less chafing going on than others. I just need to know what the recommended fix is. If you hear anything, just let us know. ~ BB+ LadyJane

 

[baz]

BB+: You posted in another thread about this hose issue and Andrew asked for you to contact him about it. My advice is to do that as Andrew will help you resolve any issue of this kind. Plus, Ranger is open to knowing what issues there are with their boats so that they are in a position to fix things to improve them.

I did check the engine hose management on my R-21EC in the factory while the engine was fully exposed and noted that all hoses are routed away from the engine proper and zipped tied to avoid them from moving from their installed positions. The ones most exposed to possible damage are the ones that route close to the alternator belt. These ones are suitably held away from the belt.

No matter, as you advice, it's best to keep any eye on the hoses because over time with vibration and usage the hoses could very well move about on their own. 😱 😱

 

[LADY JANE]

Thanks for the clarification & update. Communication with Tugnuts has been great but it seems like no one else has ever seen an engine hose vibrating up against anything else. I just go off in another direction sometimes trying to "Explain". I'm getting 50 hr. engine photos downloaded (or uploaded) to Andrew. ~ BB+

 

[baz]

Update...

Our new Ranger gray R-21EC is now very close to being complete and it will get delivered to us a week from now. All that's left is for the King Marine canvas Bimini and full enclosure to arrive and get installed and for Ranger to perform the final detailing, polishing and general QA inspection. The King Marine canvas color is Charcoal gray and I'm hoping it will complement the overall boats look and color combo with the Ranger gray hull color. The style is for the top to be flat and parallel to the boat's waterline and has no side poles except for two at the transom. At this time it's sight unseen, so keeping my fingers crossed about this. Will post some pics later on here for others to view and comment on as you wish.

Yesterday and today Kenny took the boat to the water to check out all things. Yesterday the Raymarine SPX5-R AutoPilot's fluxgate compass would not calibrate and it was determined/speculated the compass was too close to the macerator pump. It was originally installed low down on the bulkhead center line astern of the holding tank and fairly close to the macerator pump. It was relocated to the bow end of the holding tank and installed low down on the bulkhead there, and today the calibration succeeded first time. Kenny has told me the Raymarine AP will provide course following as configured on the Garmin 741XS MFD once it is told to "Engage". More on this will be known next week when Kenny and I go out for the "Factory Experience" as part of the delivery process.

The Garmin's NMEA 2K Gateway that included adding a NMEA 2K backbone network is working. It provides readout displays on the Garmin 741XS for the following engine parameters

· Engine Coolant Temp
· Engine RPM
· Engine Hours
· Engine battery voltage

Now that a NMEA 2K backbone network is in place the Fusion radio and the VHF radio can now be detected by the Garmin 741XS MFD.

Ranger has added as a 'first' for R-21ECs various anti-chafing material on all hose points that are or could be areas subject to chafing due to engine vibration or the possibility of coming in contact with the engine. Thanks to Lady Jane and to Ranger for doing this.

Boat's name "LAXEY" along with the Isle Of Man naval flag logo on the forward hull, WA registration numbers on side of Pilot House and "Edmonds" hailing port on the transom were applied/affixed yesterday by Margaux.

A sliding Helm seat was installed and gives me the needed clearance between my knees and the wheel after the AutoPilot had been installed. The sliding mechanism works well and the original seat's hinge holes will be suitably covered up and made invisible. 😉

I had forgotten about AIS so do not have this installed. Maybe I'll add that later as many Tugnuts here claim this to be a useful safety addition... (receive and transmit ????)

Radar is working nicely.

I've ordered the Caframo Bora 748 Fan from Defender yesterday as it was on sale with ActiveCaptain discount up until today. My thoughts are to install this on the central vertical teak board at ceiling height in center of the pilot house. Running power to this should be easy and straight forward. This fan will be useful for extra airflow at times as well as providing a means to keep the windshield clear of fogging.

I also have the Caframo Stor-Dry Air Circulator on order from Defender. I used one of these on my R-25 with great success for over 5 years in keeping the cabin free from odors, mildew/mold while docked on shore power for extended periods. As it requires 120vac I will use a portable ProSport Power Inverter (provides up to 150 watts) I have on hand to provide power to it while the boat is parked outside my house. I will be running a suitable gauge power cable from my outside electrical socket to the boat's power/battery-charger socket while it's on the trailer in my driveway. This house socket is controlled by a daylight activated switch inside my house based on my Latitude/Longitude so it turns power on/off at the correct daylight/night times. The only real issue I have with this Caframo Stor-Dry Air Circulator is that it consumes 90 watts.

I have the cockpit and Pilot House carpet runner Teak & Holly additions but have not seen this yet or can say what they look like until after delivery. I particularly like having the runner in the cockpit area as the all white flooring is very glaring to the eyes on bright and sunny days.

I've ordered the Rozendal Tri-Lens Radar Reflector. Ref: http://www.downwindmarine.com/Tri-Lens-Radar-Reflectors-p-91000852.html and will install this above the radar dome later. Note that Ranger no longer includes a radar reflector in the funnel/stack.

I ordered a full set of spares to be delivered next week with the boat. All spares except for the anodes/zincs. That is, such things as all engine spares (impeller kit, belts, etc), thruster fuse and bilge pump spares. I expect my anodes will last for ever. :lol: The engine does not have anodes so that's a blessing as well. The engine does employ glow plugs for each of the 3 cylinders and do wonder about their useful life as in the past having owned diesel engines with them I found they eventually will fail or simply need replacing.

I'm not documenting our R-21EC with the USCG & Homeland Security.... too much hassle IMO plus they want $26 renewal fee every year and who knows if this fee will not increase over time. 😱

No bottom paint for me which will save on maintenance cost over the years. 🙂

I'm curious about the top speed of our R-21EC and will know more next week. I expect to see 8 to 8.5 kts on the lake (Lake Washington) in calm conditions.

 

[baz]

Update...

Kenny has told me our R-21EC with full tank of fuel reached 9.5 to 10 kts at an engine RPM of 3150. Niceeeee. 😀