I just purchased a ST4000+ autopilot, planning to put the control unit at the helm, on the guard rail. I was surprised to see that the unit is made for installation on the bulkhead. In that position it's better protected from the elements and away from the compass. Aesthetically, I prefer that as well, but I'm concerned that I can't reach it from the helm. As I'll usually be coming forward anyway to do something else when I activate the autopilot, I'm thinking that won't matter. Does anybody have any advice about the best place to position the control unit before I start drilling holes in the bulkhead? Thanks much in advance if you do.
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Pedestal
You want to be able to disengage it with wheel in hand. I can't imagine not having mine on the pedestal. It would be great to have TWO control units. One under the dodger and one at the wheel. Sort of like having a wheel house. Paul sv Escape Artist h336
You want to be able to disengage it with wheel in hand. I can't imagine not having mine on the pedestal. It would be great to have TWO control units. One under the dodger and one at the wheel. Sort of like having a wheel house. Paul sv Escape Artist h336
At your feet
Mine is next to my feet on the inside of the cockpit. I can see it and get to it quickly. That's just where it was when I bought the boat. I've never considered moving it.
Mine is next to my feet on the inside of the cockpit. I can see it and get to it quickly. That's just where it was when I bought the boat. I've never considered moving it.
Bulkhead Mounting
I have a Catalina 30 wiht a Autohelm 3000. I mounted the control unit in the cabin with the power switch in the cockpit. I also have a remote control unit that I keep at the helm. When I want to turn the unit on I simply hit the power switch, which puts the unit in standby and will hold a heading. Then I walk forward and punch the auto button on the unit. If you need to disable the unit at any time, simply switch it off. This setup works great for me.
I have a Catalina 30 wiht a Autohelm 3000. I mounted the control unit in the cabin with the power switch in the cockpit. I also have a remote control unit that I keep at the helm. When I want to turn the unit on I simply hit the power switch, which puts the unit in standby and will hold a heading. Then I walk forward and punch the auto button on the unit. If you need to disable the unit at any time, simply switch it off. This setup works great for me.
Mine is on the bulkhead
and not accessible from the wheel. That's where it was when I bought the boat. However, it is easy to declutch when needed and I also have the remote control so I can actually steer the boat from just about anywhere. The unit (ST4000+) is also tied in to the LORAN so it will go to waypoints. Quite handy. I have not bought the newer drive which is really needed for this boat. The unit is at the outer edge of its capability.
and not accessible from the wheel. That's where it was when I bought the boat. However, it is easy to declutch when needed and I also have the remote control so I can actually steer the boat from just about anywhere. The unit (ST4000+) is also tied in to the LORAN so it will go to waypoints. Quite handy. I have not bought the newer drive which is really needed for this boat. The unit is at the outer edge of its capability.
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