Autotiller Raymarine ot Simrad ?

[Alex]

What are your opinions and experiences with autotillers?Thanks in advance.AlexH23

 

[Robert Avent]

Just went through this

Just went through this decision for a Hunter 19 and settled on Raymarine 1000. Some folks might suggest you jump up to 2000. Haven't installed mine yet but talked to several folks that were happy with Raymarine. If you remember Autohelm, the Raymarine folks acquired them and the units are still made in England. I am sure Simrad has alot of happy campers too and I bought mine largely influenced by the West Marine guy in Dallas who has given me good info before - also I think West Marine has a deal right now that if you buy a 1000 or 2000, they will throw in a remote control at the same price ($199 at retail for the remote)

 

[Frank Ladd]

I hear Simrad is more water proof

I hear that simrad is more water proof and I have two friend that have had their Ray Marine 1000 not work in rough conditions. One boat recently lost his Ray 1000 when a wave splased it and ruined the electronics. I can't beleive that they can't even get splashed, but that's what happended.

 

[Tom]

Experience with Navco/Simrad

I put a Navco 100 tiller pilot on my Mac 26 many years ago, For my current boat (H260 with wheel) I have a Simrad WP100, which was installed about 3 or 4 years ago. I thought the specs were a little better on the Simrad vs the similar Raymarine units, but can't remember the details now. I bought both units in the off season on sale.I've been very happy with both units. Fair winds,Tom

 

[Tim Paul]

Both Good

I believe they're both excellent products. I chose a Simrad 3 years ago (largely due to price) and am very satisfied with it. You should price the mounting hardware along with the unit itself since the brackets and poles often needed to get it right can be pricey.

 

[Mike B]

Defender

Defender Industries in Connecticut is offering the Raymarine Tiller Pilot ST 1000 Plus and includes the Handheld Auto Remote Unit (a $195. accessory) all for the price of $400.This unit is for tiller steered boats up to 5500 pounds displacement and it also directly accepts navigation inputs from NMEA/GPS without the need for external interfaces.  Click on the link, ..