AutoPilot for Legen 45

[John McDow]

I am attempting to have an autopilot installed. Person selling autopilot recommends cutting rudder stock and installing below deck.Hunter Marine does not recommend doing this because it could cause structural damage.Hunter suggested that some owners have installed through the cockpit locker. Is there an owner out there that could give me some info or an owner that has installed an autopilot on a Legend 45.?

 

[Michael Cohn]

I did it

My Robertson pilot linear hydraulic drive is installed belowdecks, and I DID cut the rudder tube. No big deal, no structural problems of any type.That tube is just to contain the rudder stock, however, you DO need to make sure your cut is above the water line. The tube itself is certainly not thick enough to be load bearing.MC

 

[Phil Press]

Autopilot for Legend 45

I owned this type yacht for 11 years. Used the autopilot that is wheel mounted by Autohelm. Served me very well. Wouldn't want to use it in rough seas but we cruised all long island sound, went to Martha's Vineyard. Used it while sailing and motoring and the Autohelm (I think 7000) did the job, efficiently and effectively.