Looking for Auto-tiller Recomendations

[Peter Reynolds]

Hi All,

I am considering adding a Raymarine X-5 smart tiller pilot for my 1980 Seidelmann S299. Boat is 8000 lbs, 30 feet.

My concern is the rudder in my boat is very strong and steers the boat in almost any wind and these little auto-tiller motors might not keep up to the force on the tiller, leaving me in an un-safe situation if I am forward on the boat to adjust a sail or something.

Any feedback would be appreciated.

From the Raymaring site below:

The rugged drive unit of the SmartPilot X-5 Tiller autopilot makes it the perfect choice for larger tiller steered yachts and racers. The SmartPilot X-5 Tiller autopilot is designed for vessels with a laden displacement of up to 6,000kg (13,200lbs). Choose the more powerful SmartPilot Tiller X-5 GP for vessels with a laden displacement of up to 7,500kg (16,500lbs).

 

[David in Sandusky]

Powerful tiller pilots

The motor/drive concepts used in tiller pilots all provide plenty of force to move the tiller in my experience. And remember, it doesn't take any work for for it to hold the tiller in place. Our Simrad TP10 has never failed on our 7,000 pound '77 h27.

So if you have a unit rated at 13,200 pounds on your 8,000 pound boat, I wouldn't worry.

Of course, any auto pilot struggles with following waves on the quarter - but that is because of the need for speed and anticipation, not power.

 

[Brian Schwerdt]

And remember, it doesn't take any work for for it to hold the tiller in place.

Not exactly true if experiencing strong weather/lee helm. Which, by the way, is just the right time to head forward to make adjustments...

 

[Rob Hessenius]

In general, you should have no problems with the weaker unit. If it will make you feel better or safer, buy the "beefier" unit. If you buy the smaller unit from West Marine and are not happy withit they have a hassle free return policy, so theres not much risk.

Note: Im not affiliated with West Marine

 

[Joseph Shirley]

I believe that most Tiller Pilots use a jackscrew to drive the arm in and out. That produces minimum load on the motor and a maximum force on the tiller. It almost makes them all over designed. I have had three Autohelm tiller pilots and they all had brute strength. I still have the cheapest unit that they ever made (I think), an Autohelm 1000 which they no longer offer. It is a no frills unit with only a DC input and a compass rose print mounted right on a circular dial. You just turn it to where you want to go and turn it on. When it wants to move the tiller you would be very hard pressed to stop it.

Good luck

Joe S