[C320-list] autopilot advice

[jimc320 at aol.com]

John,

I just replaced my original Autopilot ( Autohelm ST4000 which is the predecessor to the X-5 , since Ray marine bought out autohelm years ago)?last weekend with the X-5. Installation is fairly simple, with the hardest part getting the wires to where you need them.?If you know someone who has a little experience with this type of stuff, you could probably do it yourself.

The one thing to check before you start is how the wheel drive attaches to the wheel and the clearance that you have with the engine pod. If I remember correctly some owners had to lower their engine instrument pod. I had a small issue that the lever that is used to engage the the drive belt bumped into the engine instrument pod. I got away with grinding a little off the autopilot lever and not having to lower the engine instrument pod.

Jim Mills
Elusive 2, 209

-----Original Message-----
From: jim brown <jbrown5093 at yahoo.com>
To: c320-list at catalina320.com
Sent: Mon, 25 May 2009 9:40 am
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