Auto pilots 2.

When fitting an auto pilot to a wheel steered boat, a factor to consider is that if it is connected directly, to the steering quadrant on the rudder stock, it can be used as emergency steering if a fault develops in the linkages to the rudder.

All vessels should carry emergency steering. The systems supplied for most craft are fine in flat water when near to a harbour. They are almost impossible to use for any length of time in the open sea. It is much simpler to use the auto pilot

In addition to this, make sure you have practised fitting and steering with your emergency steering equipment. It is a good idea to try it first in an open area with little other traffic!

Trying to moor a vessel using the auto pilot alone requires a great deal of skill and you will probably need the emergency steering system to bring the boat back in to a safe berth.

 

 

 

 

 

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