Zen and the art of sailboat maintenance
Take the best option on sailboat maintenance. Do it yourself, with the help of others.
Electrical Auto-Pilot which one?
Again, I am in the process of evaluating the electrical self steering systems to complement my windvane. This is as a back up to the windvane as well as light wind steerer.
Initially I was thinking to get the Raymarine wheel pilot, because of the low cost.
Then I start thinking about my emergency tiller, which I do not have any, in case of chain or cable breakage. Although the electrical steering system is not a totally reliable back up system, at least it is something. In the worse case scenario, I can steer using the windvane rudder, which is separate to the boat's own rudder.
Based on the additional criteria, I was thinking about a more robust electric motor driving the quadrant directly. There are a few good ones, namely Raymarine, Furuno, Simrad as well as Jefa (now represented by PYI).
Anyone has any comments and experience to share?
Thank you again.
Howard
Initially I was thinking to get the Raymarine wheel pilot, because of the low cost.
Then I start thinking about my emergency tiller, which I do not have any, in case of chain or cable breakage. Although the electrical steering system is not a totally reliable back up system, at least it is something. In the worse case scenario, I can steer using the windvane rudder, which is separate to the boat's own rudder.
Based on the additional criteria, I was thinking about a more robust electric motor driving the quadrant directly. There are a few good ones, namely Raymarine, Furuno, Simrad as well as Jefa (now represented by PYI).
Anyone has any comments and experience to share?
Thank you again.
Howard
h
Another interesting point reading Ram manufacturer manuals, all recommend or show as example the 70 degree ram arm inclusion angle. Some slightly less than that.
I am guessing this is to be on the safe side. Since it is the smallest angle, so it will never go against the mechanical stops.
Anyone has any experience in installing the hydraulic rams?
What angle to use?
How to prepare the bases for the hydraulic ram?
Hear from you.
Mar 3, 2009
h
I am trying to visualize the installation of my ram.
Forward Aft or across the boat? How strong the mounting pad have to be in order not to fail under heavy following seas?
Any references or guidelines I can refer to?
Thanks for your help.
Jun 10, 2009
CaptRick
Ever thought about just attaching a tiller pilot to your windvane? I've heard that that can be a great way to save elec and keep it simple. Also, it in effect makes the windvane an emergency tiller of sorts....
Feb 3, 2010