I'm about to replace my old Raymarine wheel drive with the Linear Drive. Apparently the new autopilot wheel motors have less power and can't handle my H34. I plan on putting a 12x24x1 inch piece of King Starboard in the lazarette bottom in order to provide a solid base for the mounting block under the lazarette. But I'm out of town and not near the boat and was interested in any suggestions on how to physically locate the unit. I will be ordering an Edison short tiller arm to attach to the rudder post, as I don't think I will be able to mount the drive to the ~12" driven wheel on the rudder.
Has anyone installed the Raymarine Linear Drive Type 1 in a H34? or similar boat?
- Thread starter Mike Oldak
- Start date
I switched from a new wheel pilot for the same reason as you. Here are a couple of photos of the type 1 linear drive installation in my boat.
looks like you welded up a new bracket. Hopefully on my H34 I can just mount it to the bottom of a upgraded lazarette floor (or else I'll pull out my MIG welder)
Mike, going to be a tight fit. Pictures below.. There may be room above the driven wheel but because of the angle of the post, the new steering arm may have to go on the forward side.. which would require relocating the rudder stops and the angle iron bumper. I would really like to see how you end up installing the linear drive! You might be able to put the arm and drive unit in the lazarette, just above the top post bearing, May require a beefier top bearing if the arm is above the bearing..?? Good Luck.
Hi folks,
Slightly late to the chat here... but I am MOST interested as I have just excitedly taken delivery of a sweet little 340 down here... 'Down Under.' (1999 Hunter 340 'Malua") This boat has never had an autopilot so I'm starting with a clean sheet so to speak.
I'm learning all about her, but the 'rack and pinion' style steering set up appears to create a few AP challenges (Great pics and tips on the topic here so far thanks folks) I'm keen if poss to avoid the simple Raymarine Wheel mount system, as I would love to go with something more discreet.
Just wondering the options, Raymarine or otherwise, that might fit the bill.
Regards and thanks in advance for any tips and option advice.
- Mark Mac Brisbane Australia
Slightly late to the chat here... but I am MOST interested as I have just excitedly taken delivery of a sweet little 340 down here... 'Down Under.' (1999 Hunter 340 'Malua") This boat has never had an autopilot so I'm starting with a clean sheet so to speak.
I'm learning all about her, but the 'rack and pinion' style steering set up appears to create a few AP challenges (Great pics and tips on the topic here so far thanks folks) I'm keen if poss to avoid the simple Raymarine Wheel mount system, as I would love to go with something more discreet.
Just wondering the options, Raymarine or otherwise, that might fit the bill.
Regards and thanks in advance for any tips and option advice.
- Mark Mac Brisbane Australia
jssailem
SBO Weather and Forecasting Forum Jim & John
- Oct 22, 2014
- 22,208
Wheel mount systems, like the EV150 are practical in that they are a light user of electricity and do a good job of maintaining course on a moderate displacement boat. They are considered a light weight solution at a moderate price. They have a tendency to be damaged in a heavy following sea as the sea overpowers the unit
Linear or hydraulic units are more substantial in cost and service. The EV200 is one of several yet at a medium price point. The EV system has improved the steering response of autopilots.
Simrad, Garmin, B&G all make a version of these "hidden" autopilots. They couple well with the chart plotters made by the same company.
Linear or hydraulic units are more substantial in cost and service. The EV200 is one of several yet at a medium price point. The EV system has improved the steering response of autopilots.
Simrad, Garmin, B&G all make a version of these "hidden" autopilots. They couple well with the chart plotters made by the same company.
Thanks for the repsonse and info mate. I'll be pulling the cockpit floor panel off soon and measure things up to see what may work. It's a Raymarine plotter so the EV200 might be the best bet. See how we go cheers - Mark