Changing Autopilot

[Dreamboat]

I know this question has probably been asked before, but I couldn't find it. I have a Robertson Autopilot, which isn't working due to troubles with the electronic board. I was thinking of switching to Garmin but retain the Robertson pump, so I don't have to re-plumb the lines. Has anyone done that or knows if the two are compatible?
Thanks in advance.

 

[Boatsb]

There is no guarantee that the pump is 100% compatible. If in good working order it shul work with the correct package. 8m installing a similar system system with a raymarine pump. We will know after the seatrial if the customer needs to buy another pump. .

If hour going to do serious cruising add the smart pump and just be happy.

 

[sunset grill]

I switched to Raymarine and continued to use the Robertson Pump. The old pumps are rebuildable. A lot of the new ones are disposable. No problems. Steve

 

[Timeout]

I had an old AutoHelm pump that worked just fine with the Furuno autopilot I installed. I did check to make sure the voltage was correct and that whomever installed the AutoHelm sized the pump correctly.

 

[M&MArmenta]

Gary, hope it works out for you but if by chance you need to change the pump I may be interested in taking it off your hands depending on the pump model. I need a Robertson 300.Marcus

 

[Bob Bradley]

I switched to the Simrad AP and used the old Robertson pump with no problems. You just have to get the version that is compatible. Simrad was very helpful to me. BTW, they bought the Robertson brand many years ago.

 

[Dreamboat]

Marcus - I'll have to check to see what model I have. I haven't paid too much attention to it yet. Hopefully I'll be able to use it, but if not I'll contact you.

Bob - I'm leaning towards Garmin as I'm slowly changing everything else to Garmin, so hopefully it'll work as well as with your Simrad System.

 

[Boatsb]

Update on the garmin install with the old raymarine pump.

It works pretty good and as far as I can see will steer the boat with a clean straight wake in a small following sea. It is a cruisers motoryacht and a bit top heavy.

I looked at using this system with a 32 volt system and no joy. There is not a 32 volt controller available and I'd be cautious about a relay system until I get further feedback from garmin.