[C320-list] autopilot advice

[argates2nd at comcast.net]

I have the prior S-2 model installed a year ago.  I wanted the X-5 but it was delayed from early spring to fall for some reasons and it seems Raymarine missed the entire '08 season. 

If you integrate your GPS/Chartploter and other instruments with the AP, you could approach 1k for installation cost. 

Many do the installation themselves but I had an electronics guy help me for abour $500. 

I think the only added part is a mount for a rudder reference unit that is usually custom made and fairly simple. 

The wheel change is only a 3 or 5 pin connector for a cable that runs from the pedistal to the AP motor that is easily uncoupled to remove the wheel.  

Rollie  #182 


----- Original Message ----- 
From: "jim brown" <jbrown5093 at yahoo.com> 
To: c320-list at catalina320.com 
Sent: Monday, May 25, 2009 9:40:59 AM GMT -05:00 US/Canada Eastern 
Subject: [C320-list] autopilot advice 

My captain had a hip replacement several months ago and we're thinking about having an autopilot installed to give her a little relief from helm duties. I had a couple of questons. West Marine has a sale on the Raymarine Smart Pilot x-5 wheel pilot. Does anyone have experience with this unit? Any guesses on installation costs or other "parts" needed? And a really basic one-can the wheel be easily removed when at the dock with this unit? Also does anyone know what Catalina offers as a factory option? Thanks 

Jim Brown  "Desafinado"  Fleet 8