[C320-list] Linear autohelm

[Jack Brennan]

I must be in the minority on this because I’ve never felt the need to upgrade from the Raymarine Ev-100 (a great improvement over earlier models)  to the under-deck autopilot.

As someone else mentioned, proper sail trim is key. The 320 is so well balanced that the wheel should only be slightly off center in normal conditions, indicating a small amount of weather helm.  With my boat, this is up yo 15 knots or a little more. Strain on the autopilot is minimal.

In a steep chop and/or  gusty winds, I want to be at the helm. I’ll use the AP for a short break, but I think you lose the ability to respond quickly when things go bad and you’re not at the wheel.

That said, I spent 22 hours at the wheel this spring while going from Key West back to the mainland in rough conditions.  Not easy for an old guy like me. But I was able to anticipate and react to big waves and gusts  in ways that an autopilot couldn’t.

Jack Brennan
Sonas, 1998 Catalina 320
Tierra Verde, Fl.



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