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Old 11-10-2013, 11:15   #1
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Autohelm (Raymarine) actuator replacement

Searching the threads I found mention of replacing the Raymarine linear actuators (what you would call type 1, I believe) with an industrial version. Has anyone actually done this?

I like my old Autohelm 2000, I have two sets of electronics because I ebayed an outfit in search of an another actuator. I've gone through two of them and I gutted an old Autohelm 1000, added diodes and limit switches but it doesn't work well in anything but mild conditions.

Linear Actuators

This is the unit I picked to try, any comments?
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Old 11-10-2013, 11:28   #2
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I didn't take the time to look up the spec sheet for a Raymarine drive. I did notice in your link that it's rated for a 20% duty cycle. That seemed really low to me. In confused seas I would want a %100 duty cycle rating, I think. I also didn't see in the description that it is free to move without friction if not energized. If your autopilot is off, will this drive move freely? I'm not an expert in autopilots, but you were only asking for observations. :-)
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Old 11-10-2013, 11:54   #3
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Re: Autohelm (Raymarine) actuator replacement

It's supposed to have a 500# static rating so it probably wouldn't back drive. You're right about the duty cycle, running downwind in wallowy seas may be pushing it. It is an acme thread simple screw actuator vs. a ball screw actuator but the reccomended fuse rating is the same for the autohelm.

If you price the Raymarine unit, if you can find one, they were about $800. The new ones list at $1600. For $140 I thought I'd take a chance.
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Old 11-10-2013, 12:06   #4
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Re: Autohelm (Raymarine) actuator replacement

Did you look at other devices?
Free Resources | Linear and Precision Linear Actuators | Thomson
Linear Actuators | Ultra Motion
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