[C320-list] Recommendations on helm instruments

[Scott Thompson]

I've only used the Raymarine instruments so can't comment on the others, 
but I've been happy with Raymarine. HOWEVER, I strongly suggest you 
reconsider not having a wind instrument if you are going to use an 
autopilot. I frequently use wind mode on the autopilot, especially when 
sailing long distances, and especially when sailing upwind where small 
changes in steering in response to small wind shifts make a big 
difference. Makes short-handed sailing much easier. I've found that the 
autopilot steers upwind almost as well as I can.


On 9/30/2018 10:20 PM, Jack Brennan wrote:
> Hello all:
>
> I’m a good way through the refit on my new-to-me 320, so I’m starting to think about helm instruments and wondering what people on the list recommend.
>
> I now have an old B&G pod with a functional depth/speed instrument and a dead wind gauge. The wind instrument will disappear when I get the boat rerigged (I’m old-fashioned). Some of what I’m considering:
>
> * A Navpod with pre-cut holes for a Raymarine depth sounder, EV-100 autopilot and Axiom 7 chartplotter.
>
> * Some type of waterproof tablet and Open CPN, which I have on my phone and really like. A big question here is how to mount the tablet. I might be able to keep the B&G pod with depth instrument and alter it to accept the autopilot instrument.
>
> * Buy a Raymarine Dragonfly chartplotter/fishfinder, which is an intriguing alternative. This can be inexpensively mounted on the pedestal. The remaining question would be how to mount the autopilot and depth sounder.
>
> Each seems to have its advantages and disadvantages.
>
> In some ways, the Axiom seems to be overkill for what I need. It’s big selling point is networking, but that’s overkill for what I need. Also, I don’t want to lose everything if the Axiom dies.
>
> I like the simplicity of the tablet, but don’t want it sliding all over the cockpit and eventually going overboard.
>
> The Dragonfly has Navionics charts, which means paying for them forever. Also, it has button control instead of touch screen and a smaller display.
>
> Any ideas and recommendations?
>
> Jack Brennan
> Sonas, 1998 Catalina 320
> Tierra Verde, Fl.
> Dolphin Cruising Club of Tampa Bay
>
>
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