Which Autoplit

[wooslehunter]

I'm considering replacing my old tiller-pilot & would like advice on the Raymarine ST1000+ or 2000+.

Although generally OK once the boat's set up correctly, my old unit has problems maintaining a course when the boat starts rolling around. End-end time is around 15-20secs which results in loss of lock especially off the wind.

The ST1000+ is quoted at 9.5secs and for boats up to 3000Kg which is close to the 2800Kg Centaur. The ST2000+ is quoted at 4.5 secs end-end and would cope with the weight no probem. I guess the 2000 is the best choice, BUT, it's 100 quid more expensive.

Anyone using either of these with any recooemndations?

Thanks, Dave

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[Georgio]

I just installed a ST1000+ on my GK24 and am pleased with the results. You are correct to say that it isn't as fast at the ST2000 and this was a concern as having a fairly short keel steering does need a reasonable amount of attention.

I am however very pleased with the ease of fitting and performance of the pilot and am constantly amased at how little rudder movement is actually required by the pilot to keep me on-course. It can steer better than most people I know.

My only reservation is the usefulness of the free remote control, I havn't bothered fitting it yet as I'm struggling to think of a time when I need it. maybe it's more appropriate on a bigger boat.

hope this helps, G

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[jerryat]

Hi Wooslehunter!!

I would definitely go for the ST2000 based on my experience of the units. Whilst I'm sure you trim your boat to perfection whilst sailing, this larger unit will easily handle any 'overload' that might occur while you are doing that bit of chartwork or making the tea, or when the wind pipes up and you're a bit over-pressed!! It's very reassuring to have that chunk of extra power available. Similarly, the thing isn't 'working close to it's limit' all the time and I believe this buffer adds to it's life expectancy.

The much faster 'hardover' time is a real blessing, and dramatically improves the course holding accuracy compared to the 1000. I use a spinnaker a lot, even while singlehanded, and knowing that the unit can cope with the sudden gust or side swipe from a wave makes it all very relaxed.

Rather than a wind vane (pretty useless on the trade wind crossing) I used a 2000 on my last Atlantic circuit (in fact I took 3 of them just in case!) and expected problems somewhere along the line. However, we used the same one for the whole trip, and we had (and it handled brilliantly) some seriously lumpy weather.

I do agree it's a lot of extra cash, but this is one marine item that more than earns it's keep as far as I'm concerned.

Hope this helps you decide.

Good sailing!

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[ruff_n_tumble]

I have just upgraded from the ST1000+ to the ST2000+. The former did its job pretty well under engine in calm conditions. However, the rating was pretty close to the limit defined by Raymarine based on the weight of the boat and I always felt I needed a bit more autohelm power when using it linked to the wind indicator on long passages.

<hr width=100% size=1>Steve Marsh
Hunter 27 OOD "Ruff-n-Tumble"
Gosport