Simrad autopilot installation

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Jim Seamans

Jim Seamans

.
Mar 21, 2004
2,175
Hunter 356 Cobb Island, MD
We move another step closer to cruising...

Starting last fall of 09, we realized we needed a better autopilot. I was going to go with Raymarine which turned out to be a real pain. I started ordering the ST70 system with the type 1 drive in February. By April we realized that Raymarine was in serious trouble and would not deliver... Switch to Simrad AP24 with the DD15 direct drive. By June we had all the pieces in place. Due to moving to a new house(Read all my tools packed) I had Zahniser's of Solomons Island,MD to do the install and also check over our engine. Pictures are of the install and I hope everyone can see them. My web site has been down for several months and don't have a better place to stick the pictures.
As you can see Zahniser's did some quality work.....Hats off to them.

I have only been out three days with this autopilot and it is as smooth as can be....

http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?pid=31060803&l=2229679f65&id=1266946411
 
Ed Schenck

Ed Schenck

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Jun 2, 2004
5,802
Hunter 37-cutter, '79 41 23' 30"N 82 33' 20"W--------Huron, OH
That is a really nice installation Jim. Must have taken some time to get that platform just right but sure looks solid. If I could go cruising again I think that would be a nice replacement for my Simrad Wheelpilot. Since they quit making them I have become a little nervous about parts and repairs. I have one spare belt but after nine years not a single problem. I hope yours does so well.
 
zeehag

zeehag

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Mar 26, 2009
3,198
1976 formosa 41 yankee clipper santa barbara. ca.(not there)
i have simrad on my quadrant--drives the boat under any and all circumstances accurately and awesomely, according to the previous owner. i am more than eager to use it.
 
Ed Schenck

Ed Schenck

.
Jun 2, 2004
5,802
Hunter 37-cutter, '79 41 23' 30"N 82 33' 20"W--------Huron, OH
So Jim, it looks like the AP24 and the DD15 are purchased separately. Were you able to get a package deal? Or is it better to shop for the best price for each?
 
Jim Seamans

Jim Seamans

.
Mar 21, 2004
2,175
Hunter 356 Cobb Island, MD
Hi Ed, purchased separate from Defender. Found them to be about the best on price and being extremely helpful in getting things right. Think the AP24 was a bundle and drive separate. It was fun though, Navico originally sent a Jefa DD1 drive with markings on the box showing it a DD1 and DD15, but Defender beat them up and they sent the correct drive. I had to send pictures to prove it was the wrong drive.

Been out now in 15-20kts with some gusts to 25. The simrad performed as though we were just bumping along at 8kts.
 
Ed Schenck

Ed Schenck

.
Jun 2, 2004
5,802
Hunter 37-cutter, '79 41 23' 30"N 82 33' 20"W--------Huron, OH
That will be my backup plan if/when my Simrad wheelpilot gives up OR if I decide to visit my wife's family on my boat. They live in Ireland. :)
 
J

jeffaronson

.
Jul 22, 2010
3
Block Island 40 Metalmast Easton
block island 40 autopilot

i'm considering an autopilot for my block island 40. boe systems is suggesting a jeffa system and i noticed you mentioned it in your recent post. it seems that they're better positioned overseas.
i'm out in easton. soloman;s is a bit far for me to go for a quality install. have you had experience with anyone competent in easton-cambridge??
many thanks
jeff


Jim Seamans said:
We move another step closer to cruising...

Starting last fall of 09, we realized we needed a better autopilot. I was going to go with Raymarine which turned out to be a real pain. I started ordering the ST70 system with the type 1 drive in February. By April we realized that Raymarine was in serious trouble and would not deliver... Switch to Simrad AP24 with the DD15 direct drive. By June we had all the pieces in place. Due to moving to a new house(Read all my tools packed) I had Zahniser's of Solomons Island,MD to do the install and also check over our engine. Pictures are of the install and I hope everyone can see them. My web site has been down for several months and don't have a better place to stick the pictures.
As you can see Zahniser's did some quality work.....Hats off to them.

I have only been out three days with this autopilot and it is as smooth as can be....

http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?pid=31060803&l=2229679f65&id=1266946411
Click to expand
 
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