[C320-list] Wheel Autopilot

[ptormey 4square.net]

On #1037, I have also converted my wheel pilot to a linear using Jeff Hare's detailed instructions for exactly the same reason. It was just not reliable in bigger weather. The belt would slip. 

I used Jeff's CAD design for the backing plates, and he was kind enough to cut the Edson rudder post arm for me.

I did find that I had to angle the drive a bit to get the full swing of the rudder but it was well within the recommended angle.

The backing plates makes a sandwich of the somewhat flimsy back bulkhead on the captain's cabin. Per Jeff's instruction I used a stainless-steel plate for the cabin side for esthetic reasons but frankly I could have saved a couple of bucks by making them both out of aluminum; the plate is hardly visible at the foot of the bed. 

After one season, I'm very happy with the change. 

Pat
Pat Tormey
s/v Blues Skies
Newport RI

-----Original Message-----
From: C320-list <c320-list-bounces at lists.catalina320.com> On Behalf Of Scott Westwood
Sent: Tuesday, January 10, 2023 5:37 AM
To: c320-list at lists.catalina320.com
Subject: [C320-list] Wheel Autopilot

I had the wheel Autopilot for years. I just replaced it with the linear drive. The wheel worked well for ICW and calm seas but was unreliable with any stress. Just not designed for it.  I also did not have rudder sensor. IMHO- if you plan to do any long distance sailing and want reliability then don't rely on the wheel version.Depending on your year,  check out Jeff Hare's VERY detailed instructions on how to do it.NOTE: I installed my linear drive in Dec and have not field/stress tested yet but others swear by them.

Sent from AT&T Yahoo Mail on Android