Autopilot recommendations, 31'EC

[GaryNW]

I know, I know there was just a thread on autopilots. I will try to not go over old info. From that thread, I saw a preference for Simrad/Robertson. I have been checking a Consumer's Marine catalog because they offer so many choices (Sitex, Furuno, Raymarine, Simrad and Garmin which appears to have aquired Nautimatic). So here are some questions:
1) I troll on one engine. I would guess I use about half rudder to run straight at typical trolling speeds (2-5 kts). Should there be any problem with a properly sized system? Would options such as rate-type fluxgate compass and upgraded rudder feedback unit improve performance in my trolling situation?
2) Not sure of my ram size, being able to read any numbers or getting the info from Hatteras. Why can't I just mic the dia of the ram, measure the chrome length at hard over and calculate cu-in? Looks like most of the packaged systems have a choice of up to 11 cu-in or up to 22 cu-in. About $500 difference between the two.
3) How much juice do these things use when they are working hard? I will run off my 360 amp house bank, but I may not be running the engine that charges it with the new Balmar. So I will be running the refer, downriggers, electronics and a few lights along with the autopilot for up to say 3 hours without charging. Then I will switch to the Balmar engine.
4) BTW, in the Consumers catalog, the blurb for the Garmin TR-1 Gladiator says "the only autopilot that works at trolling speeds as well as full throttle". I'm thinking they are full of chat. What you think?
5) I have been having problems getting my flares to not leak lately. What do with think about some kind of compression fittings to tieinto the existing copper? Where relative to the helm or ram do we usually locate the pilot pump?
6) There are many Simrad models- AP16, AP25, AP26, AP35. Which one? Remember, she's only a little 31'. But does have to kick-ass at trolling speeds!
Cost is not the main consideration.
thanks all,
Gary

 

[Flick]

Gary,
I have a 31 Sport Cruiser with a Simrad AP11(discontinued model). I have been trolling for 7 years with this model. Trolling speed varies from 1.5 to 3. knts. I also drag a bag or two to obtain this speed. I do not know what the draw is on this unit but I have never had a problem with battery drain. I troll with one engine and rotate engines so the autopilot sometimes is running off the battery for the non operating engine.
I highly recommend a Simrad. I think the AP16 would work well for your boat.
Flick

 

[GaryNW]

Thank you, Flick. Nice to get a reply-I can't say this thread is on fire! You have the same hull, so your input is certainly of value. The Simrad web site shows the AP16 as a "legacy" model which indicates they are phasing it out. Seem to be steering us to the AP24-newer model. The AP16 is still available from some dealers. Consumer's wants $2300 for the AP16 and $2900 for the AP24 so I may well go with the AP16. Looks like same pump, same rudder feedback and same compass units but different computer.
Side question-do you have 454's? I too am fast even with one engine @550rpm. Have to go to neutral a lot. Been thinking of rigging a drogue (sea anchor) with a bridle and float so it can't get into rudders/props. What is your setup?
Gary

 

[thoward]

If I was to replace my autopilot I would go with the TR1, it is at the top of the heap.

 

[Flick]

I do have 454s. I run a 36" bag off the bow cleat on the same side as the running engine. Sometimes I'll run two bags one each side to get to 1.5 kts. I use buggy bags www.amishoutfitters.com/buggybag.htm very heavy bags. Not sure if the floats would work as the bags will slowly spin as you troll. I carefully measured the line so it is not long enough to get in my running gear. I tie a second line to the end on the bag to colapse the bag and pull it in. The second line also keep the bag close to the full as you turn. This line is tied to the midship cleat. Pretty simple and works well..

 

[GaryNW]

Flick, I have ordered a 36" bag. A few more questions:
1) What kind of line do you use? Poly, 3-strand nylon or?
2) Since the thing slowly spins, what keeps the line from just winding up until it stops working?
3) What keeps it from hugging the hull and wearing bottom paint off the chine?
4) Do you run the bow line through the Hatteras chock?
thanks,
Gary

 

[Flick]

Gary,
I use a poly three strand, nothing special. I use a line clapse or hook the swivels. That usually prevents the line twist. The line will rumb some bottom paint off. Not sure there is anyway to prevent that. I run the line through the HAtteras chock.
Flick