K2MSmith
Sustaining Member
When it comes to tiller pilots, the choice is pretty limited. We have basically two types of designs, the integrated (and cheapest type) like my current Simrad TP-32, where the controls for the pilot are directly on the servo arm that connects to the tiller. The other type is where the controls are in a separate panel remote from the servo arm. Two types that I have researched in this category are the Pelagic and the Raymarine EV-100 tiller pilot. None of these options have clutch system, so if you want to disengage the tiller pilot from the tiller, you have to manually disconnect the servo arm from the tiller - something you don't want to do in an emergency. This is unlike a typical below deck wheel pilot, where you can disengage with the touch of a button.
There is actually a third option, which is to go with a below deck system on a tiller boat. I don't have any experience with this or know anyone who has done it. My E-33 is pretty tight below deck to add modifications for such an installation. I would probably have to get some help doing it (which I loath because I have yet to have a good experience with anyone in this area yet). It's not going to be cheap. I am thinking in the 3-5K range installed - maybe more.
The Simrad TP-32 , which is the unit I currently have, is functional but pretty awkward to use with all the buttons for auto/manual, steering and tacking on the unit itself. Half the time, I forget which button turns left/right because of the forward/backward orientation of the buttons. I've never been able to get it to execute a tack automatically and the manual "push the turn 10 degrees button six times" doesn't seem to have a memory. I find the TP-32 useful for straight runs, but it's not very helpful for single-handed course maneuvers or even slow motoring to raise/lower sails.
So, replacing the AP is pretty high on my list for this new year improvement. (last year was the sails/rigging). I would appreciate any comments, learnings or ideas. I know that Raymarine sells the EV-100 system for wheel boats, so if you have such a system, maybe you have some feedback on the control panel part. It seems Raymarine has the slickest panel compared to the less-expensive Pelagic and since I have Raymarine instruments, integration with wind direction might be easier if I want to use that feature.
Thanks in advance..
There is actually a third option, which is to go with a below deck system on a tiller boat. I don't have any experience with this or know anyone who has done it. My E-33 is pretty tight below deck to add modifications for such an installation. I would probably have to get some help doing it (which I loath because I have yet to have a good experience with anyone in this area yet). It's not going to be cheap. I am thinking in the 3-5K range installed - maybe more.
The Simrad TP-32 , which is the unit I currently have, is functional but pretty awkward to use with all the buttons for auto/manual, steering and tacking on the unit itself. Half the time, I forget which button turns left/right because of the forward/backward orientation of the buttons. I've never been able to get it to execute a tack automatically and the manual "push the turn 10 degrees button six times" doesn't seem to have a memory. I find the TP-32 useful for straight runs, but it's not very helpful for single-handed course maneuvers or even slow motoring to raise/lower sails.
So, replacing the AP is pretty high on my list for this new year improvement. (last year was the sails/rigging). I would appreciate any comments, learnings or ideas. I know that Raymarine sells the EV-100 system for wheel boats, so if you have such a system, maybe you have some feedback on the control panel part. It seems Raymarine has the slickest panel compared to the less-expensive Pelagic and since I have Raymarine instruments, integration with wind direction might be easier if I want to use that feature.
Thanks in advance..
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