Where to place autopilot on H260?

[rickwarner]

I just purchased a Raymarine X-5 Smart Pilot for my H260 and understand that installation will be a bit more complex than my old entirely self-contained WP-10 on a previous Hunter 30 that I owned. Does anyone have experience in the best places to spot the various components? I am particularly interested in an effective place for the flux compass location. The display panel will most likely go into a custom made box atop the steering pedestal. I would also appreciate any ideas regarding the component computer box. Also, if you have installed an X-5 on your Hunter, how is the performance?

 

[shanker]

Hi Rick.

I don't have any help for you with the install but I am looking at purchasing an X-5 as well. It seems as though this is the best AP for the 260, from the feedback that I have read. Did you just buy it, if so could you share where you got it? I'm hoping to find one on sale .

 

[rickwarner]

Purchased at Strictly Sail in Chicago at Boat Show discount, PLUS got $100 rebate directly from Raymarine, PLUS got $50 in West Advantage Coupons. All this added up the AP weighing in at just a tad under $1,000. Not bad...as long as the thing works well. BTW: If you register on line, Raymarine will add another year on to factory warranty = 3 years.

 

[soling42]

You'll love your AP if you do any longer runs. It's been one of the best additions I've made although I went with a Simrad WP-32 wheel pilot that was recently discontinued. It was a very simple pedestal bolt on and also interfaces with the chart plotter to follow way points. Works like a champ but a narrow market niche caused the company to re-evaluate the profit potential, Sorta like the 26/260 we all love. I think it cost about $750.

Here's a pic of our install although you're heading in a different direction. Good luck, Mike