Guide for Installing an Autonomous Driving System: Detailed Instructions
Installing a Raymarine Evolution Autopilot on a Beneteau Antares: A Step-by-Step Guide
Boating enthusiast Rick Channon details his experience installing a Raymarine Evolution Autopilot on his 8-meter Beneteau Antares, sharing valuable insights for solo boaters aiming to enhance their boating experience.
This year, Channon, who usually keeps his annual boating expenses limited to essentials, found himself immersed in a series of winter projects, driven partly by the long, grey winter and partly by the allure of an autopilot system. His boat, Greyfin, was laid up in a picturesque position overlooking Mylor Marina in Cornwall. The stunning view served as an added incentive for Channon to spend more time daydreaming about possible upgrades.
After careful consideration, Channon realized that an autopilot system would significantly improve his boating experience as a single-handed sailor. The system would manage the steering while he could focus on navigation, scenery, and comfort, making long, uneventful voyages more enjoyable.
To initiate the project, Channon enlisted the help of Billy from BT Marine, an electrical engineer based in Falmouth. Billy first conducted a quick survey to assess the vessel's suitability for the installation and to identify accessible cable runs and suitable hardware locations. Given the Beneteau Antares' design with a single shaft drive and rudder, hydraulic wheel steering, and a pump, the project proved to be feasible.
Channon chose the Raymarine Evolution Autopilot primarily because it was compatible with his existing Raymarine equipment. The system's components included a display screen, a Sensor Core (the system's brain), an Actuator Control Unit, and a drive unit. After consulting with a hydraulic engineer, Channon selected a Hydraulic Pump specifically tailored to his boat's dimensions and speed.
Prior to installation, the components were mounted on the forward bulkhead in the lazarette, a spacious storage area beneath the cockpit. The Sensor Core needed to be placed away from motors, pumps, and large metal objects to minimize electromagnetic interference. Wiring was run back to the Control Head and chartplotter, as well as to the fuse board, which was located near the helm.
With the hardware in place, it was time to connect the new pump. A hydraulic engineer measured the runs, created custom hoses and connectors off-site, and then fitted new couplings to Channon's existing hoses at the steering cylinder. The system was then refilled with hydraulic oil, bled, and tested for leaks.
Once the professional work was complete, Channon ran the dockside setup using the software wizard, which automatically calibrated the system to compensate for local magnetic variations. Afterward, Greyfin was launched, and the final set-up was completed on the water. The basic user set-up was straightforward, involving selecting the responsiveness, boat type, typical speed, and display options.
After using the autopilot for several months, Channon found it invaluable for keeping a straighter course and reducing steering effort, especially during long voyages. Although Channon has been slow to fully rely on the autopilot due to his recent RYA powerboat course training, he admits that he is tempted to leave the helm more often.
For aspiring boaters curious about installing a Raymarine Evolution Autopilot on their Beneteau Antares, this step-by-step guide offers a useful starting point. By carefully considering component selection, mounting locations, and wiring connections, boaters can enjoy the benefits of smoother, more effortless steering.
- The addition of the luxury Raymarine Evolution Autopilot enabled Channon to focus more on the marine scenery and enjoy his boating experience on the Beneteau Antares, as it managed the steering during long, uneventful voyages.
- As Channon prepared to install the state-of-the-art autopilot system on his yacht, Greyfin, he took advantage of the latest technology with a Hydraulic Pump designed for his boat's dimensions and speed, ensuring smooth system operation.
- To take full advantage of the advanced features on his Raymarine Evolution Autopilot, Channon equipped the system with gadgets like the Sensor Core and the Actuator Control Unit, making his single-handed sailing more comfortable and efficient.
