tiller pilot for CD26D or 25D advise needed.

[gpb102030]

I have a CD26D i sail in the atlantic and soon in the pamlico sound. I am interested in putting in a raymarine st1000 or st2000 tiller pilot. Will the st1000 handle the ocean or do i need the st2000. I am sure that the st1000 should handle the sound. If any one has any experiance with a newer model any input would be great. thanks greg

[Sea Hunt Video]

Hello Greg:

In my search for a Cape Dory 25D I talked with a lot of CD 25D owners who had an autopilot. Almost all seemed to have the ST 2000. One I recall had the ST 1000 and said it was not "up to the task" with a CD 25D. I also recall several ST 2000 telling me the ST 1000 is insufficient.

I would get the ST 2000 or whatever is the current model no. today.

[Dick Barthel]

I would go with the ST 2000. There are times even the 2000 can be overpowered with wind and current. I've had mine for quite some time and love it. Dick

[barfwinkle]

I second the ST2000. I have both the 1000 & the 2000. The 1000 will not cut it!

Fair winds

[Neil Gordon]

If you have to ask, always go one step up.

[Joe Myerson]

I'm one of the 25D owners that Robert checked with, and I would say definitely go with the ST2000. It's a great addition to any small sailboat, almost like a second crewmember.

--Joe

[trapper]

I had the equivalent of the st1000, I can't remember the brand but it was not a ray marine. It was on Saga when I bought her. It finally died and I replaced it with a st2000. Works great!

[gpb102030]

thank for the input it looks like the st2000 wins. I just put the boat in the water after 4 years of work so i have been trying to put the finishing touches on it. This sight is a wealth of info. thanks for all of the help. Greg

[Joe Myerson]

One piece of advice when installing that ST2000, measure the angle carefully and make sure that it attaches to your tiller at a precise 90-degree ("right") angle. I was slightly off, and my ST2000 works wonderfully for most things, but I cannot use it to steer to a destination based on input from my new chartplotter.

You'll really appreciate having this piece of equipment on board.

--Joe

[Andy Denmark]

Greg,

A new Cape Dory is always welcomed to the area!

I concur with the selection of the 2000 as best suited to your boat but I think you'll find Pamlico Sound not to be as docile as you seem to think.

Just sayin', FWIW