Auto pilots in windtrim mode

[davehu]

What is the experience of forum members of using an Autohelm 2000ST+ or similar in windtrim mode with feedback from a wind instrument. Does it enable you to sail closer to the wind than you can with the auto pilot set for compass mode.

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[malcp]

It basically allows the pilot to follow changes in the wind direction, which steering to compass does not. I suppose it might allow you to set a course closer to the wind compared with steer to compass because with the latter you would have to allow more margin for wind changes in order to keep the boat sailing.

I find it a more useful steering mode when sailing upwind.

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[qsiv]

I'd agree - but experiment with damping, and be aware that due to the maths of apparent wind angle the the system will be inclined to ask you to bear away in gusts, which might not be your natural inclination. It doesnt cause me a problem as we have power and displacement to spare. Equally, when the gust passes the system will be inclined to cause you to round up - again not what an intuitive helmsman would do.

For all that - I wouldnt be without it!

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[quaelgeist2]

You will be able to set the course closer to the wind, since you need less allowance for shifts in the apparent winds from both reasons, change of direction and , more often, change of windspeed (leading to a shift of the apparent wind).
Since the latter also affects the boat speed, a boat on windtrim will usually sail at higher speed close hauled (where the balance is more easily disturbed)
chris

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