Anyone seeing a Raymarine dealer this weekend ?

[whipper_snapper]

If anyone is planning to visit a chandlery who is also a knowledgeable Raymarine agent, any chance you could ask 3 questions for me ?

I am struggling to find some basic information on the S1 autopilot. I have downloaded all the manuals, emailed a UK supplier and asked a question on Raymarine's website (3 days ago, via a system which promises a response in 24 hours or 48 if busy). All without success.

I need to know if the S1 can use a linear rudder position sensor instead of the usual rotary one. All manuals etc describe only the rotary sensor.

I also would like to know if the bits can be (readily) bought separately - I already have a compass head and linear sensor.

Finally, what is the lead time to get delivery of a unit with the 'gryo' modification?


I will be in the UK in April and want to pick one up, but I won't have long to hang around while special orders are made.

Thanks!

 

[Whitelighter]

I can help you with most of the questions:

The S1 kit can use a linear rudder position sensor.

The full autopilot is purchased usually in three parts - Core Pack (Course Computer, compass and rudder sensor), Control Head, Drive Unit. You can purchase the items in the corepack seperately as well. It sound like you already have the RS and Compass so you would be looking for the S1 course computer.

S1G (Gyrocompass) vesrion of the S1 system shows in stock with the people we use and should be available with a couple of days delivery.

Anything else you need to know please ask.

 

[whipper_snapper]

Thanks, that helps. But I am still confused about the way the system is packaged and sold. For instance, if I look here
http://www.yachtbits.com/raymarine/s1_wheel_pilot_system.php
I see the S1 'system' advertised for £638.25 (excl VAT). It appears to describe a complete system including drive, computer and ST6002 head.

Am I correct? If I look for the various component 'packs', I cannot find the drive by itself, but the S1 plus ST6002 seem to cost more than that complete system. So I can't believe that I am reading it right.


As an added complexity, I see that Raymarine have just announced a new SmartPilot X-Series which does not require a rudder sensor and which has gyro as standard. Do you think that means S1 prices will fall? Should I wait for the X-series to hit the streets in the UK ?