Raymarine ST2000 as main tiller lock

[CPD]

The hydrovane got it's first real workout over last weekend and worked like a dream, in all points of sail, and a very wide variety of winds. I was very, very impressed.

Getting the hydrovane going involves locking the main tiller in position and by far the easiest way to do this is to simply switch from "Auto" to "Standby" mode with the Raymarine unit in operation, and if I am out single handed, then it couldnt be easier. Is there any reason why the Raymarine can't be left in this position (ie used as the main tiller lock) or would the internals suffer, and would I be better off lashing the tiller ?. Having actually used the Raymarine in this way, it is how I would rather continue to use it, as it makes switching between the two so much easier.

My thoughts are that the stresses on the internals of the Raymarine unit would be no more or less great, depending on the sea state., than if it was being used to steer the boat. There is the fact I suppose that if the winds really picked up, then there would be a point at which the stresses on the Raymarine unit would be greater than those it would normally be, as it wouldn't be able to cope. I hope you can see what I mean .

Any thoughts welcome .

 

[Daverw]

I would expect it to wear the drive as it pushes and pulls. Why not make a short bar with a hole at one end and a pin at the other to slip over and to lock central. Would take seconds to fit

 

[mattnj]

Should be ok....sure it will wear....over 10years!

 

[alan_d]

Should be ok....sure it will wear....over 10years!

Why not unplug or otherwise electrically disconnect the ST2000 and save power?

 

[zulloboy]

ST2000's can "free-wheel" under high tiller loads. If it does this it will certainly wear the insides. If not, you're ok. Suck it and see.