Raymarine Smartpilot S1000

[Mackey]

Has any one had any experience using one of these autopilots?

[seb1]

I installed one of these this past winter and do not know how I got along without it before. I use it for offshore trolling, inshore trolling (spanish macks) and most of my runs to the fishing areas. It allows me to be more involved with the fishing with a small crew. I keep the remote around my neck and when trolling just keep glancing ahead to make sure no boats approaching.

I installed this my self taking about 4-5 hours. I installed it on a 05 Regulator 24fs with twin F150s. As of right now I have had zero problems with it.

Scott

[yachtjim]

I have been using one on my 23' Seacraft since '05 or '06. Right when it came out. It has worked flawlessly. I am a huge fan.

[Mackey]

Thanks guys for the information.

[stimmy]

I put one on my 06 Shamrock Mackinaw last year. I usually fish alone and, with the full cabin, had a major problem keeping lines clear and the boat straight ahead while trolling. Now I can literally troll for hours without entering the cabin. I mounted a radar readout under the overhang in the cockpit and can keep an eye out ahead through the windshield as I track obstructions on the radar.
Then, when I'm done trolling, I call up my waypoint, set the pilot to track and sit back and relax as it steers me home! It holds truer, even in a sea, than I can. I'll never be without one again.
BTW, I called raymarine with some questions about it before buying. They were as helpful and as nice as any company I've ever dealt with; however the technician told me flat out the S1000 would not be suitable for my 27' inboard. He could not explain why, saying only it was designed for 25' max outboards. I took a chance and bought it anyway and couldn't be happier. I think they feed you a line so they won't detract from their more expensive models for larger boats. My rudder takes about 10% of the force to turn compared to an O/B. And I still have no clue what the boat length has to do with an autopilot. Go for it!