CD 28 owners -- tiller pilot

[Rebinva]

What brand, size tiller pilot do you use? How well does it work? Other thoughts??

[sgbernd]

I have the RayMarine ST2000 in service for about 6 years and about 2500 miles. It works fine. When the seas get up, you will have to take over as it gets over powered and it doesn't do so well running down wind with a following sea. But for about 90% of what I do, it is great. It has not given any trouble and always works.

[mgphl52]

Same here, ST2000, but I haven't used it very often - I enjoy helming, especially with a foot... If I need to take care of something (more beer, etc.) I grab a sail tie, put the loop around the tiller and take it to the windward cleat. I nice conditions, I've sailed several miles like that and altered course a bit with gentle sail trim adjustments.

-michael

[RDH3]

I use an ancient Raymarine autohelm until the apparent wind gets to around 6 knotts or so. I'm not even sure about the model. It came with the boat and works well. I installed a Windpilot Pacific windvane last year and love it. I really like the sensation of the the force of the wind on the sails and water on the windvane balancing each other out. Not to mention the battery power savings. It works well when the apparent wind is above 6 knotts or so.

[Neil Gordon]

I grab a sail tie, put the loop around the tiller and take it to the windward cleat.

You know, I've always wondered about those "Tiller Tamer" gizmos that seem to do exactly the same thing as a [free] piece of leftover line from the bottom of a cockpit locker.

[mgphl52]

I grab a sail tie, put the loop around the tiller and take it to the windward cleat.

You know, I've always wondered about those "Tiller Tamer" gizmos that seem to do exactly the same thing as a [free] piece of leftover line from the bottom of a cockpit locker.

My "problem" with tiller tamers is that uncomfortable mass attached to the tiller. Since KAYLA came with the ST2000 and it's connecting pin already on the tiller, I've gotten use to that and "know" where it is when I'm helming with my leg or foot. But I think a tamer would be more nuisance than it's worth. Especially since a properly tuned & trimmed Cape Dory usually has just the right amount of weather helm; I've never needed to use two sail ties!

I guess if you're motoring a lot that might help, but I usually just steer and enjoy being on the water.

-michael

[Rebinva]

I guess I'll be looking for a 2000.

Thanks again.