Mounting a Raymarine P70 Head options

[Canonshooternb]

I have just purchased a Raymarine Autohelm with a P70 Control unit for my 28-2. I do not have a pod to mount it and they seem very expensive to purchase for an empty box. Are there more economical options that I am missing ? I do have wheel steering and would like to have it close and in a visible location.
What are the recommended options ?

 

[JohnVTX]

It was a perfect fit to screw in to one of my cup holders.

 

[Skipper]

I used a Cantex junction box (Pic).
http://www.cantexinc.com/Products/NM_Fittings_Accessories/Junction_Box/Cover.php . 5x5x2.
Reasonable finish, robust PVC construction, color matches instruments, matching squared face, waterproof, mounting tabs, etc. almost like it was designed for the purpose.
I even mounted the GPS to the top, and the RAM3 to the bottom.
3 years and looks like new.
Oh yeah and it was $12.
I ordered mine online but I've since seen them at Lowes Depot.
I also had to buy the mounting things from WM, which were twice what the box cost. But still better that $200-$300 for a marine pod.

 

[sesmith]

Similar setup on mine. (yes, those are pvc conduit clamps holding it on....might as well stick with the same theme...makes it rotatable too)

 

[pateco]

I am trying to mount a Raymarine C-80 on my pedestal, and cant find a cheap way to do it.



I don't want to have to buy a new Edson guard rail but there doesn't seem to be room on the existing pedestal.

I bought one of these surplus in the box at the Davie FL Marine Flea Market for $40, thinking I could figure out how to mount it to the pedestal.



But several months later and I am still stumped. Any suggestions or insight would be greatly appreciated. I am looking for a brainstorm thanks.

 

[Canonshooternb]

Thats fantastic, I never would of thought of that but I know what I am doing tomorrow. Thanks so much

 

[Skipper]

Thats fantastic, I never would of thought of that but I know what I am doing tomorrow. Thanks so much

You'll need to drill a hole in the back to allow the cable to enter. The exit from the instrument is too rigid to allow a bend to the bottom. You can find grommets to make the exit look natural, and to keep water out. I also drilled a small hole in the bottom to let any water out, should it enter.

 

[sesmith]

Maybe my box is a little deeper. I had no issues sending the cable out the bottom. Got mine at Home Depot.

 

[Canonshooternb]

I located a box and it it will work great. But all of this lead me to a second question.

Do I mount the Autopilot on the pedestal or on the bulkhead for quick and easy access to when I am Not behind the wheel ? What are the pros and cons of either. I ask questions twice before cutting

 

[JohnVTX]

Pedestal

 

[jssailem]

Planning a similar project. Send pictures.

 

[sesmith]

Pedestal

Agreed. You need to have it within reach of the wheel lock wherever you plan to mount it.

 

[jssailem]

You need to have it within reach of the wheel lock wherever you plan to mount it.

So why do you see them mounted on the cabin wall next to the companion way?

 

[sesmith]

Don't know. Just makes more sense to me to be able to lock the wheel and then hit the auto switch on the P70 control head without moving around on the boat.

Also, if something goes wrong, you want to be able to put it in standby, and pull the wheel lock off quickly, without having to get up and walk across the cockpit to do it.

 

[JohnVTX]

So why do you see them mounted on the cabin wall next to the companion way?

Usually autopilots on tillers.

 

[pateco]

My autopilot is mounted down low next to the engine control panel on the port side at the stern of the boat. I can reach it from the helm, but it would be more convenient on the pedestal.

Sailed my neighbors Catalina 36 last week, and his was mounted on the cabin wall next to the companionway. Both locations work, but closer to the helm may be easier for single handing. depending on where your lines run. If you can control all of your lines from the front of the cockpit, that may be the place to put the autopilot.