Experience with the Pelagic Autopilot

[dLj]

I have an old Raymaine ST8002 autopilot. It's still functioning but it's starting to have some glitches that I don't like. I have been looking at upgrading the system and have run across the Pelagic Autopilot. I've never used one nor have I been on a boat with one installed. it claims that it will nicely interface with my current below decks drive which is a big plus as that system is really solid. I'd really only need to replace the flux gate compass, course computer and control head. The drive unit is rock solid. The new Raymarine units don't get me very excited to spend that kind of money on.

I'm looking for anyone with experience with this system and how they like it. Any other input, like if someone has done a retrofit installation of a Raymarine unit with this system would be most welcome. Any other experiences with the Pelagic autopilot would be most welcome. One thing I was curious about is that the Pelagic only has the ability to adjust to 2 degrees as the smallest adjustment. While this for the most part I am not overly concerned about, my current Raymarine does have 1 degree adjustment capacity. The only time I've felt that was advantageous was running up the ICW. One thing I can do with my current unit is hit a button and actually run the autopilot as a drive unit. Meaning I an spin the knob and steer the boat. They don't seem to make this option anymore.

I'd also be interested in knowing if there is anyone that rebuilds these old Raymarine units as that could also be an option.

dj

dj

 

[gouldx]

I have the PA1 (Standard Pelagic Autopilot for Tiller Steered Vessels). It was installed by a previous owner, so I can't make any direct comparisons to other units on my boat. What I can say is that the hardware is straightforward and very sturdy. It looks and feels like an industrial component that I would trust to stand up to rough treatment.

The optional remote control is a handy item for steering while attending to something on the forward deck, but I do wish it had smaller adjustment increments to better compensate for the boat's natural tendency to veer slightly to one side under engine power. It will accept wind data over NMEA 0183 for automatic course correction under sail, but I don't have mine connected.

I did run into an issue in which the actuator would only steer to one side, but customer service was helpful in tracking down a loose wire. That's about it; simple and sturdy, but more of a hands-free helm than a true "autopilot."

collin

 

[FastOlson]

The inventor of the Pelagic, is a regular contributor on the Ericson owners' site, his technical expertise is impressive, and he has raced his boat to HA and back. Others there praise the units. If upgrading from my old Raymarine wheel drive AP, I would install one.

 

[dLj]

I wouldn't be using a tiller pilot, something I've heard some mixed reviews on. I'm looking to drop it into my current system to drive my current below decks drive. I've not seen anyone that has talked about that. I am a bit hesitant given it only goes to a 2 degree adjustment resolution. I'm accustomed to 1 degree resolution.

I've also never seen one - the images online don't make it look particularly easy to just put into the same place as my current components.

Does anyone have one of these out here in the North East and be willing for me to just look at it?

dj

 

[Rick D]

I'd also be interested in knowing if there is anyone that rebuilds these old Raymarine units as that could also be an option.

dj

dj

This is the e-mail of the guy who repaired mine (and later a spare): c250@mydurango.net

 

[Tally Ho]

The inventor of the Pelagic, is a regular contributor on the Ericson owners' site, his technical expertise is impressive, and he has raced his boat to HA and back. Others there praise the units. If upgrading from my old Raymarine wheel drive AP, I would install one.

Will a St6000 control unit drive one of their below-deck drives? not sure how the price compares with a new Ramarine linear drive, but competition is always good.

Greg

 

[dLj]

Will a St6000 control unit drive one of their below-deck drives? not sure how the price compares with a new Ramarine linear drive, but competition is always good.

Greg

I'm not sure what you are asking. The ST6000 is a Raymarine product. Are you asking if the Pelagic below deck linear drive can be driven by the Raymarine control unit? I certainly have no idea.

My difficulty is I do not have a below deck linear drive - I have a chain drive system. The drive motor spins a chain sprocket that spins a worm gear. My steering gear is a worm drive system. I have no cables or sector arms.

dj

 

[Tally Ho]

Yes, that is what I am asking….if I get tired of my wheel pilot, could I use a Palegic linear drive below deck mount and drive it with a Raymarine head and course computer?

Just curious. I keep looking for a Raymarine linear drive unicorn deal. Haven’t found one yet.

But in comparing, the 2 units are not priced too much different. Maybe not worth the effort and would just stay with Raymarine drive.

Greg