DIY autopilot recommendations?

[Sea Shift]

I'm replacing a Raymarine autopilot on my 265 Express twin yamaha 250s. The old MFD crapped out and the system is acting up. My question is what systems have you installed on your boats that you would recommend? I have a new Simrad NSS EVO3 and was thinking about getting their system buy a short search shows quite a few historical problems with the AP44 and NAC-2 being able to hold course. What are your experiences with installing autopilots? Likes, dislikes, cautions etc?

 

[Sardinia306Canyon]

I got my first AP with the Canyon i bought this June.
Garmin Reactor 40 and GHC10 display, interfaced with my two 8412xsv MFD's.
I rarely use AP following routes as i don't need them, but is use frequently heading hold when trolling or sounding/recording a new area.
I would suggest to get same brand AP, thats usually the best choice regarding system integration but AP can probably be of other brand but may not have or less functions to use from a other brand MFD.
However, the Garmin Reactor is a widely used AP with many many installations and not a lot of problems known (if installed correctly).
Chris

 

[SkunkBoat]

dunno anything about simrad APs.
Regardless of brand, you need the most expensive one, not the cheaper one, if you want it to be useful trolling slow.
Its not a difficult DIY if you routinely DIY things.


see threads
https://www.greatgrady.com/threads/autopilot-upgrade-from-manual-hydraulic.26808/

Autopilot- Garmin Reactor 40 with Smartpump info

https://www.greatgrady.com/threads/field-replaceable-fittings-for-seastar-5-16id-hose.27057/

 

[drbatts]

I Installed a Garmin smartpump and reactor 40 a few years ago. I did the majority of the install, but had a mechanic friend help with the hydraulic connections as I had never done those before. Pretty straightforward install. It is the best autopilot I have ever owned. Holds well in all speeds and sea state.

 

[vocz]

Just installed Simrad AP24, RC42 compass, AC12 computer, Rpu80 pump, connect to Evo3 on my 265 express. It’s so smooth. I use it mainly for trolling and heading hold.

 

[trapper]

Installed the Furuno Nav Pilot 300 approx 3 years ago . Fairly easy DIY install with good instructions. Never an issue, works great!

 

[Sea Shift]

Just installed Simrad AP24, RC42 compass, AC12 computer, Rpu80 pump, connect to Evo3 on my 265 express. It’s so smooth. I use it mainly for trolling and heading hold.

VOCZ, did you needed the AC12 AND your EVO3? I thought you could go directly to the EVO3 Unit? Also, did you use Virtual runder feddback (VRF) or are you using some type of feedback device? Thanks for the info.

 

[vocz]

You don’t need the AP24 display but you do need the AC12 computer to drive the RPU80 pump and RC42 Compass. The Evo3 takes care of the on screen Auto pilot. I brought the auto pilot as a package and want a dedicated device AP24. I don’t have a VRF. I use RPU80 pump to the hydraulic steering helm.

 

[Sea Shift]

You don’t need the AP24 display but you do need the AC12 computer to drive the RPU80 pump and RC42 Compass. The Evo3 takes care of the on screen Auto pilot. I brought the auto pilot as a package and want a dedicated device AP24. I don’t have a VRF. I use RPU80 pump to the hydraulic steering helm.

I can understand wanting the dedicated device, Im just trying to save a little cash if I can.

What is the hydraulic sterring helm? Is that the Seastar Steering cylinder on the motor? From what I'm seeing online there is either a Rudder feedback device mounted to that or it is "Virtual"?

 

[SkunkBoat]

The helm is at the helm (connects to steering wheel).
You probably have a SeaStar classic tilt 1.7 helm. The original had 1/4 NPT fittings. New ones have ORB-5 fittings.

You said you currently have an old Raymarine AP...old meaning 20 years old? model?. So you have a pump already. And an AP computer. and a heading sensor? It was operated from a Raymarine MFD or from a Raymarine AP controler?
Do you know if AP was working before MFD crapped out?
Point is....You might be able to just get a Raymarine Controller and be done.
watch this Youtube/Raymarine AP Basics

If you need to go the all new route and you have Simrad then stick with Simrad (although your existing Raymarine pump might probably work...)

Again, having a strong enough /fast enough pump is very important.


IMO, a separate AP contoller with buttons or a knob, placed next to the steering wheel, is WAY better than having to use the main mfd touchscreen.
Money well spent.

A lot of new APs do not require a rudder feedback sensor for outboards.. They do require a heading sensor or 9 axis heading sensor.

 

[Sea Shift]

Thanks for the link. Yeah the AP worked but now has a "Seatalk" Error and will not function. I figure with it being 15 + years old i might be better off replacing it. There is also some sort of electrical rod mounted to the seastar tilt that is very corroded. Must be part of that old system.
My new EVO3 already has a HS60 compass so I'm thinking just add the NAC-2 and a pump (RPU80?) and i might be in business?