autohelm installation

[Marc]

Does anyone use an autohelm on their 7.9? I'm thinking of an ST1000+ or an ST2000, but can't imagine that it has a long enough throw for mounting on the cockpit wall. Marc (Zafu #195)

[Jim Kloss]

I have a very old autohelm that came with the boat. Don't use it much; sometimes just to hold the tiller when I'm single handing. It mounts on a lazarette hatch. There's plenty of stroke but the brass lever arm to reach up to the tiller isn't too strong and has twisted on me.

Jim Kloss
s/v Ambivalence
S2 7.9 #8

[Jeffrey]

I have the ST 2000. Better to over power than under power. It does mount to the cockpit wall/seat back. I added an extension that either came with it or paid extra, and I cut it to fit. I also fit a shim to the base fitting because the cockpit seat back is angled. I used this in the Chicago Mac single handed race three years ago now. Feel free to contact me with questions. Jeff (skyhawk #250)

[Jeff Bonvallet]

I have the ST 1000. I mounted the fitting on the deck just outside the inside edge on the port side. I added an extension, that is available as an option, and ran the wiring inside the port lazerette, and just pull it out under the cover when in use. By placing the end fitting high on the deck, I didn't need a riser on the underside of the tiller. Works great!

[Captain Frank]

I am completly ignorant about tiller pilots:

What extras would you need or recommend to go with the ST 1000 or 2000?

GPS with what functions/interfaces? What else.

I am looking for cruising reasons and what are the most desirable "needs" to go with the tiller pilot.


I have seen complete outfits for thousands of dollars, what is essential?

[Jeffrey]

I has it's own compass, so you can set the course that way, or steer your course and hit Auto and it will hold that heading.

It will connect with your GPS, (NEMA standard), and or tie into wind direction as well if you want to get fancy. Jeff (#250 Skyhawk)

[richrand]

I have an old Autohelm ST1000. It mounts on the aft topside. The plug is wired in the starboard lazarette. It's super easy to use and is very helpful to have. It's no frills, but it lets me keep a basic heading while I make a sandwich or whatever.

[Captain Frank]

Thinking of buying an ST-1000 or ST 2000 autohelm.


How often or when do you use it, is it a luxury or just a nice to have item,

or didn't know what I was missing until I got one !

is the ST-2000 worth the extra $150 ?

I really would appreciate some input !

Thanks

[richrand]

I use mine every time I go out. I have to motor down a river for a bit until I get to the Sound, and I use the ST-1000 to hold the tiller while I prep the boat. It's great because I can hold a heading into the wind while I put the sails up.

Thinking of buying an ST-1000 or ST 2000 autohelm.


How often or when do you use it, is it a luxury or just a nice to have item,

or didn't know what I was missing until I got one !

is the ST-2000 worth the extra $150 ?

I really would appreciate some input !

Thanks

[CelloDane]

Dane here, new S2 owner. Could you tell me how long your extension is?
Cellodane@Verizon.net
thanks,


I have the ST 1000. I mounted the fitting on the deck just outside the inside edge on the port side. I added an extension, that is available as an option, and ran the wiring inside the port lazerette, and just pull it out under the cover when in use. By placing the end fitting high on the deck, I didn't need a riser on the underside of the tiller. Works great![/quote]