Autohelm vs Simrad

[Rob_Webb]

I'm looking at autopilot options for the (wheel steer) boat I'm buying. Had Autohelm in the past and quite liked operation of unit (although clutch sometimes popped out under heavy load). No experience of Simrad wheelpilot but interested to compare with Autohelm - any experiences?

Likewise, I'm also wanting to install 3 separate units for depth, speed and wind on the helmpod - considering Simrad but should I try anything else? Not looking for top-tier performance or cost just half-decent reliability and value for money?

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[Twister_Ken]

Re: Autohelm (now Raymarine) vs Simrad

Autohelm bought by Raymarine 5 yrs or so back.

Raymarine junior range (<A target="_blank" HREF=http://www.writeforweb.com/twister1>Let's Twist Again

 

[RupertW]

I wouldn't touch whichever one was Navico. After years of having a working Autohelm, I changed boats and bought a Navico Tillerpilot. Every few months I'd have to change (under guarentee at first) the electonics, the motor, then finally the arm started unscrewing and falling off. No fun at all.

Back to Autohelm and trouble-free again.

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[Twister_Ken]

Simrad bought Navico, mainly for their VHF sets, I believe.

<hr width=100% size=1><A target="_blank" HREF=http://www.writeforweb.com/twister1>Let's Twist Again</A>

 

[Good]

I have Navico/simrad TP30 Tillerpilot for 7 years now and i have sailed in all conditions up to force 9 with a 27 foot long keeler 4000kg and it have served me perfectly can only recommend it

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[Birdseye]

Tried a new all singing all dancing Simrad system recetly and was most i,mpressed by the autopilot and its ability to steer to the wind. Adjustment of the course by a rotating dial so I could enjoy playing between 32 and 33 deg off the wind, watching which gave the best tell tales. The screen gave readouts of all the info you might want from any other linked unit.

Absolutely no guide to long term performance but great fun.

Mind you it was black and ugly. And stupidly expensive.

<hr width=100% size=1>this post is a personal opinion, and you should not base your actions on it.

 

[sailorman]

i had the wheel pilot some 5 yrs ago it busted after less than one season due to the poorly made clutch .
Navico gave me a new boxed unit after the warrenty period had expired (but i had contacted them prior to the 12 months). i p/xed this for a "plumbed-in " Autohelm 6000 this is excellent, only problem first yeat the clutch solinoid gave trouble since sorted.

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[Koeketiene]

Have a Simrad WP30 - utter crap!!

Can't keep a decent course (within 15°) once you get more than F5. Callibration - a joke!
Use VHF and it does 360° turns.

As soon as I can afford something decent - it goes.

<hr width=100% size=1>Experience is a good teacher, but she sends in terrific bills.

 

[mikewilkes]

Fitted my WP 30 about 18 months ago and still trying to calibrate the bl**dy thing.
Found last time we were out that we set the old girl up and just left her. Never touched her for about 3/4 hr so it does make you wonder about auto pilots.
Now got an external fluxgate to try. If it dont work keep your eye on the for sale forum.


<hr width=100% size=1>Mike
Ready for going back home to my mistress and SWMBO of course !!!

 

[Koeketiene]

If it dont work keep your eye on the for sale forum.

I would never inflict this poor excuse for an autopilot on fellow forumites.
The kids refer to the WP30 as "eBay material".

<hr width=100% size=1>Experience is a good teacher, but she sends in terrific bills.