R25 autopilot pump placement.

[rrobson1977]

I am torn between placing my pump in under the helm or below the cockpit. Any recommendations for the board??

Helm:
Pro: better environment may increase pump life
Con: Noise

below cockpit:
Pro: No noise
Con: worse environment.

 

[Just Dreamin']

I mounted mine in the aft cockpit storage locker next to the trim tab fluid tank. Working on five years with no issues. I did fabricate a starboard plate which I mounted over the top of pump for a little added protection. Regarding your other post on pulling wires and hose forward along starboard side of boat. Anything which you can do to get a clear view of the area helps. I have pulled several cables (autopilot and rear video camera) and autopilot hose forward. Removing the panel in berth area below helm opens up a complete view along starboard side and also have removed fridge which for my tug is fairly straight forward (four screws, cut caulk, two wires and slide out).
Good luck.

 

[rrobson1977]

Thank you so much for the input, I think I will go with the same setup!

 

[Ken Boyd]

A couple of years ago, Andrew Custis at Ranger Tug put together a several page installation guide (with pictures) for retrofitting a Garmin autopilot to a R-25 that gave a fairly detailed breakdown on how to put one in. If you do not already have a copy, send Andrew a PM and I am sure he will forward you one.

 

[baz]

Advice.... Make sure the Shadow valve/pump is below the center of the helm wheel. Typically this is mounted inside the wiring box behind the helm faceplate.

When mine was installed by the factory as the R-25 was being built the Shadow valve/pump was located too high and that resulted in some issues. The Garmin technician was disappointed with Ranger when he saw the installed location and promptly relocated it and discussed with Ranger to make sure they did the same on future installs. 😉 😱