This is not a definitive answer but simply an observation. I believe that keeping the hydraulics is probably achievable and a good choice. They are pretty simple. 2 drive wires (+/-) and 2 directional wires (+/-). From what I can tell that is normal. You will have to find out how much current and what voltage the drive motor draws and ensure that it mates with the new drive controller...or rather ensure that you select a new drive controller that mates to your hydraulics drive. You may find that you're rudder angle sender will need changed out... Mhe, no biggie. If your flux gate compass still works fine you may be able to save a few bucks and some labor by reusing it.
It seems most of the list is fond of Raymarine products but I agree with the intuitive nature of Garmin products. I suggest looking for a unit that is as forward and backwards compatibile as possible and does not employ proprietary controls. I don't know all of the possible options but NMEA0183, NMEA2000, wifi, and SignalK would be on my wish list. This will help minimize planned obsolescence. Have you checked ebay or consignment shops for repair/replacement parts? Might be easier and more cost effective. Over the years I have amassed replacement parts for nearly all of my critical and high dollar components. Josh Muckley S/V Sea Hawk 1989 C&C 37+ Solomons, MD On Jun 12, 2017 9:18 PM, "Bruce Whitmore via CnC-List" < cnc-list@cnc-list.com> wrote: > Hello all, > > I think I'm going to succumb and replace our Navico PH8000 autopilot. It > is outdated to the point there are no replacement parts, the display on the > wired controller is faded, and I just can't seem to get it to cooperate. > Oh well, something had to substantially exceed the budget for upgrades... > I've been pretty lucky so far thanks to many of you! > > So, I have a couple questions: > > 1). The hydraulic ram works well, with no leaks. I would just as soon > not retrofit a different one. Is this reasonable and possible? > > 2). We have Raymarine instrumentation throughout the boat, including a > C90 MFD at the helm. Does this drive the decision to go with Raymarine for > the autopilot as well? > > 3). What is your favorite (and least favorite) autopilot and why? > > Interestingly, I'm having a hard time finding an authoritative, recent > review on autopilots. Does anyone know of a link to a good review> As a > side note, I'm just finding the C90 difficult to learn. I had been used to > Garmin, and just found it so intuitive, that the Raymarine is like trying > to learn another language. > > Thanks for the help! > > Bruce Whitmore > 1994 C&C 37/40+, "Astralis" > Madiera Beach, FL > (847) 404-5092 (mobile) > bwhitm...@sbcglobal.net > > _______________________________________________ > > This list is supported by the generous donations of our members. If you > wish to make a contribution to offset our costs, please go to: > https://www.paypal.me/stumurray > > All Contributions are greatly appreciated! > >
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