Remote Steering - Intellisteer R21

[Stewartlockwood]

I have seen this type of remote (wireless or with a hand held unit with a long cable) at several boat shows and have a few questions:
- Will one of their models work on my boat? I have a 2005 R21 and, while the steering looks to be hydraulic, I have read that it is "mechanical steering - Uflex rack and pinion' (maybe on the R21EC ?). They sell one version for cable steered, and one for hydraulic steering.
- Has anyone ever installed one on an R21? There may be issues making sure there is enough space under the dash.

I am not looking for an autopilot system, just something very simple that would allow me to sit up front on a calm sunny day with no traffic, and putt along at 2 to 3 knots. Cost in under $1000. I attach (or will try to) a page from their brochure that shows the model types and two photo of my steering mechanism.

 

[SGIDAVE]

I have seen this type of remote (wireless or with a hand held unit with a long cable) at several boat shows and have a few questions:
- Will one of their models work on my boat? I have a 2005 R21 and, while the steering looks to be hydraulic, I have read that it is "mechanical steering - Uflex rack and pinion' (maybe on the R21EC ?). They sell one version for cable steered, and one for hydraulic steering.
- Has anyone ever installed one on an R21? There may be issues making sure there is enough space under the dash.

I am not looking for an autopilot system, just something very simple that would allow me to sit up front on a calm sunny day with no traffic, and putt along at 2 to 3 knots. Cost in under $1000. I attach (or will try to) a page from their brochure that shows the model types and two photo of my steering mechanism.

Hello Stewart,

Could you post the name or website of the steering system company to which you are referring?

I could be wrong but I believe the STANDARD steering system in all the 21's is MECHANICAL. I've heard tales of very few boats with hydraulic steering added as an option at the factory or later by their owners.

/david

 

[tlkenyon]

Yes, the standard steering is mechanical - push/pull cable. I am very interested in the Intellisteer. Please keep up posted on what happens.

 

[Stewartlockwood]

Thanks for the note. I will keep you informed if I move ahead.
I did hear from the company, and he confirmed that it is a mechanical “rotary” style helm. I am looking into the 'type S', and he sent along specifications and measurements etc. It looks like it will fit right in, and I note that they sell an adaptor specifically for the UFLex PN:M66X 18 foot long cable that connects to the steering wheel mechanism. If you email me at [email='slockwood@vectorlaw.com]'slockwood@vectorlaw.com[/email]' I can send you the documents he sent. I would be interested in any price quote you get in the US.