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wedivebc · 23-07-2019, 10:15

I'm looking for a hydro vane steering system for a 35ft boat. I would prefer a newer one but a gently used older one might do.

flyboyerich · 23-07-2019, 11:39

Be careful buying an “older” one. They changed a lot of the core structure dimensions at some point so new parts don’t fit older basic parts. Do you research on when things changed so that so you don’t end up with a much bigger financial outlay than you anticipated. With that company, I would stick with a newer generation, used unit. That being said, it’s a good company with a good product.
~E

flyboyerich · 23-07-2019, 12:13

They changed the rudder length at some point, made it longer for more authority, which greatly improved the performance of the unit. The issue is that if you have an older generation, the new rudder doesn’t fit the old rudder tube, so you have to replace that and some other parts as well. Now you are quickly approaching false economy of buying an older unit because it’s heavily discounted based on age. The new ones are VERY pricey. I managed to find a very decent Monitor for a $4,000 savings over a new Hydrovane, so that made sense for me. DYOD, YMMV.

**roverhi** · 23-07-2019, 14:09

WindPilot also makes an auxiliary rudder system, WindPilot Pacific Plus. Bought mine used and it's done a great job of steering the boat DDW for weeks at a time. They are not cheap, unfortunately, but another possible source if you are looking used.

Be aware that any auxiliary rudder system will make maneuvering the boat in tight quarters more difficult. Use lines to input turn direction into the vane to aid in turning.

driftwoodfire · 24-09-2019, 12:34

Hi, I was actually just logging on to post a hydrovane for sale. It is a 2004, with a new vane cover (standard vane). It is in good condition, it has the older foil shape and the VXA1 drive unit. I believe it has two single strut brackets (have to check the original specs sheet to be sure that's what they are called), and most of the offshore spares kit.

This vane has been across the Atlantic, Pacific, and Southern Oceans, so it is not lightly used, but it has been well cared for and has tons of good sailing left in it.

If you are interested, send me an email, or respond here and I can share some photos and answer any specific questions you have about the unit.

$2500 + shipping