Our current autopilot system, an earlier version of the Autohelm 6000, still works. However, it is not linked to our navigation instrument system, has a much more primitive set of steering algorithms and options, and has a modest electric linear drive hooked directly to the rudderpost steering quadrant. While motoring and under normal sea conditions, the current system steers reasonably well. However, when the wind pipes up and the seas get a bit lumpy, the current system cannot handle the load and beeps for assistance. It just gives up!

In the CSY section of our web site, under Projects, we have pictures of rudder autopilot installations on CSY's.

Our new Raytheon ST7000 Plus is the latest generation of the distinguished Autohelm technology family, developed and manufactured in Scotland by Raytheon Marine. The "control head" or display, provides a host of very valuable ship information, right at one's fingertips. It connects via the SeaTalk and NEMEA 183 protocols to all our other navigation instrumentation, including the radar, the windvane on top of the mast, and the GPS. It also is connected to a rudder position indicator. This information is factored into the ship steering's autopilot computer algorithm.

We just installed the new fluxgate compass, the new course computer, a new "control head" at the binnacle, and a convenient remote control unit this weekend. Next will be the replacement of the current electric motor linear drive with a VASTLY more powerful hydraulic linear drive, to be able to steer the boat in almost all sea conditions. Having a reliable autopilot that can do this is vital when making long passages.

Below are pictures of the cockpit with the old Autohelm 6000 mounted on the side, and the new ST7000 Plus mounted on the center pod, along with the remote control unit, positioned where the old autopilot controls were.

Stay tuned for the pictures of the new hydraulic linear drive to complete the installation.

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