I wonder if anyone has ever "hacked" a CPT pilot to add features, like steering to a wind angle, or to a waypoint? If I could pick up a used on
By the way: Though this would add more cost, you could always control the CPT motor with a Pelagic Autopilot controller. The electronics are more advanced than the CPT, but you'd benefit from the robust CPT drive motor. The Pelagic could control any 12-volt drive motor, so it should work just fine with the CPT--though you could call Pelagic and ask what their experience might be with interfacing to the CPT. Bet you anything they would be able to answer that for you. Just a thought.I did a lot of research while considering the two. I do coastal cruising with a lot of change of direction due to narrow passages (Puget Sound) and had no real need for waypoint tracking. For me it came down to the use during the worst of times while single handed. That is the primary reason I have a AP. All other uses are considered convenient. The EV has a significant history of broken and worn down internal parts within the stearing belt system over time. For these reasons I went with the CPT. Customer service was top notch. Installation was straight forward with exceptional documentation. The only down side is that it is bulky and I would like a wireless remote option. I’ve had it for about three years now with no regrets.
I don’t buy into the shear pin argument. Shear pins are designed as a weak point and sacrificial. You should always have back ups ( several) for any sacrificial element. Imagine what would have happened ( probably only applicable to those who know the CPTs strength) in the same situation with the EV?
Exposed drive belts can be minimized in the configuration of the system. Mine is so low pro that it is a non issue.
My Ericson 26 is tiller steered and I use the Pelagic with their tiller actuator. As an apples-to-apples comparison, I ditched my former Raymarine ST2000 tiller pilot and got the Pelagic. There is no comparison. The Raymarine unit is more or less a toy, and the Pelagic steers the boat in conditions the Raymarine wouldn't touch. I had an ST4000+ on my previous wheel-steered 30 footer and thought the same thing about it.