Autopilot Reccomendation

[Aquasport275]

Hey guys,

I am looking to purchase an autopilot system, and I really am stumped as what would be the most practical system for my boat. I have 28 foot (Aquasport 275) explorer, does anyone have any reccomendations?

[billschwabe]

I'm suprised this question has gone unanswered for so long! The absolute best autopilot IMHO has been, and still is the Robertson/Simrad. Unfortunately and maybe because of new corporate heirarchy, they are now quite expensive but they still have more flexibility than any other unit out there. I have installed a lot Simrads, Garmins, and Raytheon units and they all can do a good job but it usually takes more work to get the setup right on the other brands. Garmin has made major changes lately and their TR1 Gladiator unit works good with an outboard like your profile says you have but Simrads NFS (no feedback) unit does equally well. The whole key is to have a pro install it and do the setup. Don't settle for a dockside calibration with maybe a quick run around the harbor to get it right. You HAVE to go out in the ocean and do it in real world conditions, rough seas and all at speed, where you will be using it!

[southport05]

Only my own experience, but I've had TR-1 Gladiators (the versions before Garmin took over) for the last 6 years, both on a 26' CC w/outboards, and a 28' express w/diesel inboards. Absolutely love them. Performance, reliability, and ease of use has been excellent. Have heard good things about the Simrad/Robertson as well. Have not heard good things about Furuno, and have seen Raymarine in action and was not impressed at all. Agree with previous poster, install and initial setup is very important. Hope it helps.

[Aquasport275]

Thanks Alot guys

[seapower]

I installed a TR-i Gladiator (bought it used from a friend) on my boat last year. I have a twin outboard boat, I absolutely love it. There is no way I could physically keep up with it, in any sea. Track's very well and doesn't try to pitch us out of the boat. Steaming or trolling, doesn't matter. I have used all of the other brand's on other boat's, wouldn't trade mine for any other that I've used thus far. On a side note, I don't have it tied into any other electronic's, I used it pretty much "point and shoot".
I will add that installation is the key. Compass/gyro placement is paramount. I have also found Garmin to be very willing to talk me through with the installation and set-up of the pilot. I am a big fan of Furuno, but this pilot get's the nod from me with an outboard application. Frank

[Questsportfishing]

they work great and really don't need no rudder angle sensors on the steering. simarad when you get bigger footage vessels

[stokes86]

I would highly reccomend the Simrad, either the AP24 or AP28 if you have the room for the display. They are extremely durable and steer any boat i have ever been on very well.

[Marie Maddie]

AP 26 great unit easy to install, setup and use. Integrates with Navnet easliy!!!

[Captain Jay Kavanagh]

I have a simrad ap35 on the bite me, great unit.

[Aquasport275]

Thanks Again guys