tiller pilots

May 31, 2006
263
- - Vancouver
Hello fello VEGAtarians.

You would not believe the weather here in British Columbia. I am
looking out of my office at the north shore mountains, little snow,
sunshine, about 10 degrees C. Are my thoughts on sailing or what?

Thinking of purchasing a tiller pilot. Looked at an Autohelm 1000
(Raytheon)and a Simirad TP10. Any comments?

Cheers
Brian - Lyra V1039
 
Oct 31, 2019
562
Hi Brian;
I just came back from my boat- it's beautiful here in Florida (though it was
a little chilly lately at night).
I'm using a Tillermaster Autopilot- I bought that one some 25 years ago- it
needed some repair twice- I used to send it to Tillermaster- they fixed
it- added
some features- but never charged me a penny. I'm sailing single handed- and
I'm using my pilot just about close to 100%- in any weather!
I know I can depend on it- that's important for me.
Good luck- and happy sailing
Wilhelm V-257
 
Oct 30, 2019
119
I purchased a Simrad TP20, jusst in case I ever want to try to
interface with NEMA 183 (?) stuff. It replaced a Tillermaster, which
worked fine until it blew a power transistor. The guy who used to
fix Tillermaster is retired, it's on the shelf until I figure
smething out.

I found a good price hopping on the internet. I think I ordered it
from Bethel Marine, somewhere. Lots better deal than West or
Defender.

Doug Taylor, #712
 
Nov 8, 2001
1,818
The simrad tp10 will suffice but it is on the edge. if you can afford to get the more powerful model then go for that.

steve birch vega "southern comfort" v1703
 
Jun 7, 2001
13
I bought a Simrad TP10 last season. Very useful particularly in the open sea,
I found it a bit slow to react in more confined waters. Unfortunately it
seized solid after 2 weeks of hard use around the south coast of England last
August. Simrad have repaired it after some hassle but have withdrawn any
further guarantee on the grounds that my Vega is too big. Be warned!

Colin Spiers V1400