Autopilots for Tiller Steerage

[Peter C.]

Am looking to install a "simple" tiller autopilot on my H25.5. Recommendations to look at or stay away from?

 

[Ned Strain]

Thoughts and Considerations

Added an autopilot to the tiller of an Islander 29'. Very satisfied with the results. Very easy to install. Bought a unit that "spec'ed" for a larger boat - hence, plenty of power in heavy seas. Also, if you're comparing them go for the smallest "peg to peg" time. I included the (wired) remote - great for walking around the deck to check sail trim, huddling under the dodger in rain and spray, and keeping control when visitors have filled the cockpit.

 

[Ron]

Raytheon or Autohelm

The two major brands seem to be Raytheon( formally the Navico brand) and Autohelm. They both make OK units. I purchased a ST2000 (Navico) for my H26.It works very well and is a great addition which makes sailing easier. Suggest you get the larger size which will give you extra power and also allows for GPS connection if you want to do that. Installation is pretty straightforward - I placed mine on the cockpit floor near the back - somewhat unusual, but it worked well and you do not have to mess with the seat area - the other installation location,.Good luck. E-mail if you have other questions. (Frabonimn@aol.com)

 

[Steve Dion]

Not to confuse the conversation....

but Navico is now Simrad.Raytheon is also on the auction block. Who knows who will purchase this division!

 

[Paul Westcott]

Tiller Autopilots

I installed an Autohelm ST1000+ on my hunter 22 and have had very good luck with it. It has a built in digital compass and can take a GPS or wind vane input. I got it because I had very good use of the earlier Autohelm model on my old Pacific Seacraft 25. This is a heavy full keel boat that developed very heavy helm pressures but the Autohelm managed very well even running downwind in 6' plus swell.