On Sat, 24 Sep 2005 00:53:15 GMT, "John Cairns"
wrote:


Since you mentioned autopiloting, would add that tillerpilots are about half
the cost of wheelpilots and a LOT easier to install.

Yes, that's true. Mechanically simpler, as well. The downside, and
it's easily remedied, is that the pilot is often "outside" in the
elements, somehow attached to a locker hatch or something. Even a
plastic bag will help if it's absolutely ****ing/soaking out, although
they are supposed to be more or less waterproof.

I just found a discarded Autohelm 1000 that I will attempt to revive
and/or cannibalize because I have a working...if antique...Autohelm
1000 that is adequate to my needs (holds a course or keeps the boat
head-to-wind with the engine on, that sort of thing.)

R.