Planning to install linear drive autopilot in spring 2022. My old wheel drive just can’t handle any sea and I do a lot of long distance single handing.
I’ve gone from considering B&G hydraulic including all components to ordering Raymarine type1 mechanical linear drive EV200 etc. on my Beneteau Oceanis 331 (~11,500 lbs).
My main deciding factors: Tech support in my area - Georgian Bay (Lake Huron), all my other electronics are Raymarine, power consumption, good reviews, excellent responsiveness by Raymarine to my enquires. I must say I was very intrigued by B&G because of their pedigree but I wasn’t impressed with their responses to my enquires, especially because I’m planning to do the install myself.
Challenges will be no room for separate tiller arm on rudder stock so have to tie into existing steering quadrant and tight quarters in general to allow sufficient radius from rudder stock.
I haven’t been able to find a lot info on YouTube so I will document my project and share once done.