Autohelm Windvane Input

[Hampus]

Hey!

On the old boat we had a Monitor windvane. It was an excellent piece of equipment and I couldn't be more satisfied. Unfortunately, there's no way we'll be able to fit a Monitor on our center cockpit ketch with hydraulic steering. The alternative that we've found is the Autohelm windvane. Now I'm looking for input from those who have experience with it. I know it's been fitted on the exct same type of boat before so obviously it works.

I'm interested in pros and cons, bad weather/light wind capabilities, problems when reversing etc. Does it affect your turning radius? With a 15 ton full keel boat turning radius is already an issue even without the vane rudder in the water. I've already read all the info on the manufacturer's webpage and am looking for someone with hands on experience.

Thanks!

/Hampus

[dana-tenacity]

It wasn't as good as the english one with the auxiliary rudder - hydrovane?

[Hampus]

Originally Posted by dana-tenacity

It wasn't as good as the english one with the auxiliary rudder - hydrovane?

Checking out Hydrovane. In what way is the Autohelm inferior?

/Hampus

[barnakiel]

Also look up the windpilot (indep. rudder model).

b.

[dana-tenacity]

The autohelm wasn't as sensitive and just plain didn't have the grunt of the Hyrovane - haven't tried windpilot but they get good reviews from owners.

[highseas]

I am considering the Hydrovane,quite a nice unit apart from non hinging rudder that needs hard to reach pin pulled (with no tilt up),then complete removal.Emergency rudder is great feature,not so great is the near $7000. cost.