What is the most popular/Best auto pilot installed on 26X

[mastreb]

There's plenty of room down below for a tiller/ram steering I think. I did the wheel because I was in a bit of a rush and because I do intend to replace the cable steering with hydraulic when it causes me any issue and I can get a hydraulic actuator for this system in that case.

And I've spent all my boat bucks for this year

[sailor stan]

Thanks for all the great comments!! I was hoping for a spirited debate on the best auto pilot to buy for the mac with differing points of view and pros and cons for each model, But I guess what I am hearing is that there are really only a couple to choose from that suit the MAc, and that hydraulic is cheaper and more reliable than others but you lose the touch and feel ( spirit of the boat) by going that way? I guess there is no difference in models as far as tacking and ease of installation or operation. I read the post for teh ev-100 installation and all the problems geting it to calibbrate was something i had not even considered. It all sounds complicated !! But then so was sailing util I went out there and did it !!

[RobertB]

Looking below on my , I believe the tiller type autopilot would be an easy install. My biggest concern is: Is a easy way to disconnect required and how would this be done with the tiller style?

[Seapup]

Here is an idea for a possibly cheap option...Use a tiller pilot like a st1000 on the wheel. Would just take a little MacGuivering

It is basically the same as the 3000 but the motor is inside with a small belt to run the actuator. Mount the motor through a hole in the pedestal like people did with the 4000 and pop small pulley on the back of the wheel for the belt to run on and turn the wheel.



Compass and computer inside the control head.





The 3000 wheel pilots can be found cheap if you look around too. I picked up a another 3000 for $100 at a consignment shop this summer. Using it now instead of the digital ST3000. The analogue has a gain dial on it so its quick to adjust for different sea conditions when the boat is getting pushed around.

[Russ]

Looking below on my , I believe the tiller type autopilot would be an easy install. My biggest concern is: Is a easy way to disconnect required and how would this be done with the tiller style?

Yes, this is what I was thinking. My understanding is that you can "force" the tillerpilot to some degree, but it's not designed for that and will wear out. So an easy disengage system is required.

I was thinking of a solenoid device attached to the steering bar. Some kind of sleeve that will float freely until the solenoid is engaged and it engages a pin of sorts. I was looking at door lock actuators for this. They are inexpensive and might work.
Drill a hole in the steering arm and allow a pin to engage it.

My idea was to install one of these on the steering bar and attach the tiller pilot to it. Make it larger so it can slide freely over the bar.


Then drill a hole for a pin and use a 12v door actuator to engage a pin to lock it in place.
I have all winter to figure this out. Might have to learn to weld.


--Russ