Raymarine autopilot

[journey on]

I agree with Dusty. The autopilot relieves one from steering the boat, and lets you concentrate on piloting. Keeping a good lookout is vital, especially in bad conditions. Steering the boat means you concentrate on the compass or a landmark, and really don't concentrate on making sure you see other boats, logs, and stay clear of danger. It's invaluable in cruising. If you're going to go at 25 knts., yes I'd hand steer. Although it has worked at that speed. On a smooth surface.

I assume the noise is the hydraulic pump. I installed Journey On's under the sink. When the autopilot is on, I listen to the noise to judge how the autopilot is doing. When it begins to labor or run "a lot", I start hand steering. The location probably contributed to the difficulty I had in bleeding the system, but it's a great place.

Boris