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Old 08-23-2015, 08:50 AM   #19
AusCan
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City: Adelaide
Vessel Name: Kokanee
Vessel Model: Cuddles 30 Pilot House Motor Sailer
Join Date: Jul 2012
Posts: 3,218
I'm with you FF.


I've never had a boat with hydraulic steering, so I may not know what I am missing.


But - I have zero problems with my mechanical system. The autopilot drive is mounted directly on the helm wheel (Autohelm 4000). It is a simple system but works perfectly in all conditions over about 2-3 knots in speed. Sure the wheel turns on its own, but I don't see a problem with that.


The helm wheel is light in any conditions. I have great feel for what is happening when in a following sea, but never so much that its a lot of work.


I can fix anything that breaks. I recently picked up a complete spare autopilot (used) for $60, so I'm covered there.
The emergency tiller can be dropped into place and operating in about 30 seconds.


What advantage am I missing out on?
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