wire connection for autopilot

[Russ]

Hello to all, I am installing a autopilot on my 30 Catalina and am not sure where to hook up the 12volt power supply. I currently have it connected to a spare terminal on my distribution panel. My question is, do you think I could get enough amps this way, or should I connect it straight to the battery? Thanks, Russ

 

[Steve Dion]

You need a breaker regardless of where it is.

Russ:You will need a breaker regardless of where you install it.I think it will depend on how much power your autopilot draws. If it is a wheel pilot, you may be okay using the instrument breaker (if the instructions are okay with that). The Simrad/Navico recommended using the same breaker.If you have a unit that draws a lot of amps, you should probably just wire to your power panel and use the proper sized wire for the run.

 

[Greg W]

Autopilot Breaker

Russ:You should have room in your panel to install a separate new breaker. My 1983 Hunter had two slots left when I recently installed my new autopilot. I used a breaker with a white switch so I new which one was for the instruments. It is very easy to install. I think the hardest part was breaking out the covers to open the slot. Pull the panel cover and shut down both a/c main and the dc main first. It shouldn't take more than one hour. You will need two wire sheathed 12 or 14 gauge wire I believe. Check with your autopilot manufacturer to see what gauge they recommend. The gauge will be based upon the length of the run and the draw (amps).Good LuckGreg W.