I have a small 24' center console w/ twin outboards. I think I could fish more by myself if I had an autopilot. Can anyone share their experiences and pros and cons on this?
Thanks!
Bisquit
I have a small 24' center console w/ twin outboards. I think I could fish more by myself if I had an autopilot. Can anyone share their experiences and pros and cons on this?
Thanks!
Bisquit
I have been thinking of doing the same thing. I have read up on this one... http://www.raymarine.com/Default.asp...on=2&page=1018
There are install videos on there too. I have been waiting to see others input on this unit but it is fairly new and not much is found yet regarding reviews.
Good Luck - Rob
Its like having another person who doesn't get distracted at the helm. You"ll wish you hadn't waited to get it. I troll often for 10+ hours and it is a tremendous relief not to steer all the time. Just be aware that at high speeds they can at times decide to turn unexpectedly but that's usually the response to rough sea conditions during which you would probably man the wheel. Good luck.
I had installed the Raymarine T6002 last year and really like it for every situation. Running across the bay about 12 miles to the Chesapeake Bay Bridge Tunnel, offshore to the tower or to the Point off of OI, and back, it's the nuts that helps on fuel and time. I had always used the GPS and followed the track but always moved off of the mark and then back on track. It sure is nice to go in a straight line which saves on gas and time. I use it trolling also, whether it be to a waypoint or just hit "auto" to run in a straight line while you help with the gaff/net or rods out of the way. Great feature on a small boat! Go for it.
By the way, I have a LOA 24' Robalo CC (2200)
Last edited by fishinmagician_IV; 08-30-2008 at 08:53 PM.
Thanks for the input, guys...
RWW--that's exactly what I had in mind. I have a Garmin 3010c unit, and Evinrude E-Tec motors, so I'll have to determine what will work with them. Thanks for the link!
After have it you won't know got along with out it . I'm running the simrad AP12 a 23 mako with a single engin .It was fairly easy to install and set up .
We have the TR-1 and love it. It makes your day much easier. It's pricey but a great autopilot for outboards.
Agree on the TR1. Simple and not that pricey ($1500 ish I think). I think Garmin bought them so it shoudl integrate
I've got an older Raytheon Sport Pilot on my 12WA and trolling in any kind of head/beam wind will knock it out of whack.
One thing to consider for solo autopilot use is some form of automatic/remote kill switch. I'm looking at one before I rely on the AP much solo. http://www.autotether.com/?gclid=CPD...FRQEIwodg3YrRQ
i've installed quite a few simrad ap16's-virtual feed back...this unit has been repalced by the ap24...i've installed a few(2) of these...one had a fitting that just would not stop leakingreplaced it all,leak's gone now...other one is great,no problems...i highly reccomend these products...