I'm contemplating adding a new wheel mount auto pilot (Raymarine EV-100) on my 1983 Landfall 35, equipped with an Edson 737 dual lever engine control (the type with the two extra stainless tubes that carry the control cables). I was curious to see if anyone on the list may have attempted to add this style auto pilot to their boat using the same engine control to see if there were any clearance issues between the autopilot motor/drive unit and the control housing. This type engine control extends below the top of the pedestal (beneath the compass) and has up/down levers on port and starboard.
I am aware that I'm at the top end of the displacement range for a wheel pilot, however my main reason for wanting a pilot in the first place is to facilitate single handing the boat for setting and dousing sails as well as picking up moorings, etc. I'm not looking to cross oceans, just simple coastal cruising but since my primary crew member has moved out West, not having an auto pilot means the boat will sit on the mooring far more often. A below deck pilot brings with it the challenge of where to mount the drive unit and the cost of the more expensive pilot, the Edson tiller arm, and the fabrication of a shelf to mount the drive unit. Thanks for any advice. Chuck Gilchrest S/V Half Magic 1983 Landfall 35 Padanaram, MA
Thanks to all of the subscribers that contributed to the list to help with the costs involved. If you want to show your support to the list - use PayPal to send contribution -- https://www.paypal.me/stumurray Thanks - Stu
