Sailomat Windvane Reviews/Feedback

[UNCIVILIZED]

Guys,
I seem to run across Sailomat Windvane self steering gear mounted on a fair number of boats, in my quest for "the next boat". And I'm curious to hear firsthand feedback about such gear's efficacy, as well as it's weak points. Since it's not gear which I'm familiar with.
Nor have I read much in terms of how well it performs. Especially when the chips are down, so to speak. AKA, when Neptune's throwing a fit.
Thus, I'd love it if you guys could help me get up to speed on this gear. And the more specifics in your feedback/comments, the better.

Also, if you've lived with one of these units for a while, what did it need in terms of both care, as well as spare parts?

Thanks

PS: I'm looking at boats about 40' LOA, with spade rudders, fin to semi fin keels, displacing 9-10T. And that are generally well mannered.

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Anyone?

[cpa]

My Brother did two transatlantic crossings in his Grand Soleil 39 with one. We installed the Sailomat 800 before he left. I sailed with him a few times and it seemed like a good piece of gear. He had no issues on his trip and it was his only form of self steering. I would ask him for more specifics, but he is on a ship for the next 6 months. I know that he loved his Sailomat and it never failed him.

[UNCIVILIZED]

Thanks

[SimonV]

I have an older 601 and love it. I am looking for a new boat and will fit one of the new versions for ocean crossing. Simple and robust. I have 35000 miles on this one and for coastal or when the wife's on watch fit the raymarine auto pilot 1000 in place of the wind paddle. Next to no power drain and let's me sleep.

Sent from my GT-N7105T using Cruisers Sailing Forum mobile app

[xslim]

I have an old Sailomat 3040M installed on my new old boat (30 year old custom aluminum 39ft, 9 tons, fin keel).

I did not yet tried it, but the previous owner did I think 2 circumnavigations with it...