autopilot

contrary to some folks philosophy,  a $50 thousand dollar autopilot may not be the way for me to go.  I like the idea of being able to understand, maintain, and repair every system I install on this boat so in that spirit, I chose a classic Cetec Benmar course setter autopilot system.  This thing is just about as basic as they come.  It has a robust drive motor that engages the steering wheel sprockets via a trusty chain drive.

here are all the components:

from left to right:

1   motor drive / gear box
2   course setter
3   control unit
4   binnacle