Change Fluxgate heading sensor or keep existing KVH for new Autopilot?

[phantomracer]

I would like to replace the Autohelm autopilot (type 1) with a new B&G system in the near future.

Been thinking about the heading sensor. Currently have a NMEA0183 heading sensor - KVH Autocomp 1000. It is connected to my N2k backbone with a B&G adapter (AT-10HD). Working great.

Was wondering if it would be worth the effort/$ to change to a newer N2k Fluxgate. Looking at B&G Precision-9 Compass, but open to suggestions for a B&G autopilot... or just keep the KVH

[phantomracer]

No thoughts on a good NMEA2000 heading sensor / fluxgate ? Or if I should just keep my KVH?

[zboss]

Is there a reason you aren’t upgrading to solid state? Any solid state like the 9 you mentioned above will be better.

[phantomracer]

Originally Posted by zboss

Is there a reason you aren’t upgrading to solid state? Any solid state like the 9 you mentioned above will be better.

That's my question if I should upgrade to something more modern or keep the kvh.

[smac999]

Upgrade. It will be better. And you can calibrate it via the pilot

[Jerry Woodward]

I had an ST4000 autopilot. The motor and wheel attachment were recently replaced but the head unit display was gone and heading sensor was marginal. As part of a N2K upgrade, I got a Zeus MFD and bought the Simrad NAC2 autopilot core pack, including s Precision 2 compass, computer and rudder Angle sensor. I was able to use the same motor, wheel assembly. The rudder Angle sensor was a pain to install because it was difficult to access, but the rest was easy. Each component ties into the N2K backbone and it all works perfectly with the Zeus.

[phantomracer]

Originally Posted by smac999

Upgrade. It will be better. And you can calibrate it via the pilot

It will be worth it, in other words?

The current KVH I have no complaints with (for my older AP and radar).

I figured the newer style would offer more and data to a new AP when I get it...was wondering if it was worth the effort to do so.

I am guessing it would be

[funjohnson]

We went with a satellite compass with our B&G autopilot, but really, any gyro compass will be better than the old fluxgate. The pitch and yaw input is where the new autopilots really outshine the old fluxgate based set-ups.

Matt

[phantomracer]

Thanks..

I will likely do the heading sensor this winter layup.. although it probably won't improve my old AP, at least it will be ready when I get the new AP in a couple years..

also stumbled upon this article which seems very good too https://www.cruisingworld.com/improving-your-autopilot