[C320-list] AutoPilot Installation

[Jon Vez]

Dennis,

You will not have to make any adjustments to the wheel spindle--however, you
will have to lower the engine pod about an inch to fit the new peg that
holds the back of the MKII in place. The drive motor will also need to be in
the 'alternate' position which is to port and in the upper quadrant. This
will cause your compass to be thrown off due the magnetic influence. Neither
is a big deal and worth the upgrade...

Regards,
Jon Vez
Solstice #582

-----Original Message-----
From: c320-list-bounces at lists.catalina320.com
[mailto:c320-list-bounces at lists.catalina320.com] On Behalf Of Dennis Harris
Sent: Saturday, July 04, 2009 7:58 AM
To: C320-List at Catalina320.com
Subject: [C320-list] AutoPilot Installation

In looking at the new Raymarine Autopilot, I notice that the width of the
drive wheel is 28mm (~1 in.+) while the existing clearance between the
boat's wheel and the instrument panel is only 3/8-1/2 in.  The Edson Wheel
nut appears to be about 1 in., so, at first glance, it would seem that the
autopilot would not fit without modification to the Edson Wheel spindle.
How is this situation resolved with the S1 and X5 autopilots - new spindle,
spacers, etc.??

An acquaintence is replacing his Simrad Wheel Pilot 5000 with the new X-5 on
his Hunter 340 and has offered me the old Wheel Pilot 5000.  He said that it
controls well except every now and then it goes crazy and puts in an abrupt
turn.  I don't know whether the problem is with his boat/installation or the
unit.  Has anyone used this autopilot with the C320 and what has been your
experience with it?  Also, any comment on how to resolve the clearance
issues above for the WP5000 will be appreciated.  "Free" is a good price,
but "you get what you pay for" is perhaps also a good warning.

Dennis Harris
C320 #694