Autohelm ST7000 expired

[Rob612]

Would love to have some advice on what to do about my Autohelm ST7000 having failed. The course computer is Z125 12V. I would like to replace the course computer with an autopilot that would be compatable with the rest of the components of the system. I have ST50 wind, the fluxgate compass with the gyroplus 2 SHS the rudder sensor, a hydraulic drive unit, etc. Is there an autopilot that would work with these? I don't have time for a major refit. I've arrived in Key West and I'm scheduled to sail to Cuba on Tuesday. Any advice on this would be appreciated. Thanks, Rob

[sy_gilana]

Try searching all of craigslist with this command
autohelm raymarine st7000 st6000 site:craigslist.org

Ebay, amazon, etc, try Sailorman in Ft Lauderdale, your best bet is to get a used good unit, otherwise you are going to be told that all of your gear is retired and you will need to buy everything new.

[Rob612]

Thanks for the suggestions. I'll do that today.

[Rob612]

Thanks again. I was able to locate a st6000 at sailorman and ordered it. The question becomes, What is the difference between the 6000 and 7000? Anything I need to be concerned about? Sailorman guy says it has to do with the drive. Mine is hydraulic pump type 1 or 2. Again, thanks for your help with this.

[sy_gilana]

The 6000and the 7000 are the same generation, seatalk interface. The 7000 had 2 more features that are rarely used, and more buttons. Your biggest problem is going to be the installation where the 7000 was wider, so the 6000 will possiblyhave unpainted surface to the right of the hole.
You might not even have to do the settings. If you check your current settings, and see if the new unit sees them too. (Rudder gain, max deflection, rudder alignment, displacement hull, etc...) RTFM.

[Rob612]

OK, yea. The thing I bought is the course computer. I don't think the control head is included. I downloaded a 200+ page manual from reymarine and it says any seatalk control head will work with the 6000. Also the drive pump type one will work which is the one I have. So it seems the course computer will just change out. Not 100% sure about the 7000 control head though. Any thoughts? Thanks for all your help.