Am considering installing an auto-tiller and would like to hear from others who have done so. Particularily (sp) on selection process. I have read two different reviews in Practical Sailor. The 1st one was a heads up comparision and rated the Navico 300 as the best one. A later review was of the Autohelm 2000+ (I think that's right)and they really ripped it even to the point of making comments about the "+" part.
I heard recently that Navico was bought out by someone, and that it was becoming very difficult to get repairs done on their units! Does anyone have any information on this?
Lastly, what size do I need for a 25D?
BTW, while I am out it, I need a sheet for my A-spinnaker. Can I use 3/8" line?
Thanks
Bill
cd25d@rhapsodysails.com
Auto-Tiller Advise
Moderator: Jim Walsh
-
Ken Cave
Re: Auto-Tiller Advise
Bill:
I have had nothing but great results with the Autohelm, and have had two units on a Catalina 25,and the 1000 unit is more than adequate.
The main difference in the 1000 and 2000 unit is the speed in which they work. For the extra price of the 2000, it is necessary?
The Cape Dory 28 that I have just purchased has both the 1000 for back up and the 2000 for a main unit (the former owner really did an overkill!)
I have also had work done by Autohelm on what I thought was a problem with the unit (but found that I placed an outboard too close to the head-causing to goof up on occassions) They spent four hours bench time trying to figure out the problem ane did not charge for the service even though it was two years old at the time.
Navico? Be care of the electrical connections-from the unit to the boat wiring. A friend of mine had fits with this for almost a year until he replaced the connections. Also the Autohelm can "talk" to your GPS and your Radar if you have the system hooked up together.
Hope this helps!
Ken Cave
bcave@whidbey.net
I have had nothing but great results with the Autohelm, and have had two units on a Catalina 25,and the 1000 unit is more than adequate.
The main difference in the 1000 and 2000 unit is the speed in which they work. For the extra price of the 2000, it is necessary?
The Cape Dory 28 that I have just purchased has both the 1000 for back up and the 2000 for a main unit (the former owner really did an overkill!)
I have also had work done by Autohelm on what I thought was a problem with the unit (but found that I placed an outboard too close to the head-causing to goof up on occassions) They spent four hours bench time trying to figure out the problem ane did not charge for the service even though it was two years old at the time.
Navico? Be care of the electrical connections-from the unit to the boat wiring. A friend of mine had fits with this for almost a year until he replaced the connections. Also the Autohelm can "talk" to your GPS and your Radar if you have the system hooked up together.
Hope this helps!
Ken Cave
bcave@whidbey.net