[C320-list] Red Reverse Polarity light on panel
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David Nolte
Nov 14, 2021, 11:28:27 AM11/14/21
to C320...@catalina320.com
We had an electrician run a new 30 amp line down to the dock so we could charge the boats’ batteries. After he finished the job I plugged in and flipped to shore power. The Green light came on and I left. I came back a few days later and the Red light below the Green shore power indicator was on. The Red light is a caution light thats says Reverse Polarity, and to turn off the power, which I did.
What is going on here? How can I fix it?
Thanks!
David Nolte
Beach House 0004
What is going on here? How can I fix it?
Thanks!
David Nolte
Beach House 0004
Ade Bateman
Nov 14, 2021, 1:45:05 PM11/14/21
to C320...@catalina320.com
I'm not sure why the red light didn't come on immediately, but this light is intended to signal that the live and neutral wires coming into the shore power connector are the wrong way around (which could indicate here that the electrician wired them backwards). This can be especially dangerous because it can make parts of the system live that would otherwise be disconnected by a switch in the live wire. It can also create dangerous conditions depending upon how the ground and earth are wired. I've seen various posts here indicating that different 320's are wired differently in this respect so I wouldn't assume any particular configuration. This can result in some metal items onboard being connected to the live wire.
In short, disconnecting immediately is the right thing to do (not just turning off the power) and next you need an electrician to diagnose the issue.
In short, disconnecting immediately is the right thing to do (not just turning off the power) and next you need an electrician to diagnose the issue.
Scott Thompson
Nov 15, 2021, 10:58:13 AM11/15/21
to C320...@catalina320.com
David,
Even if the wires are not reversed you can get this signal if the ground
or neutral wires are unreliable. "Polarity reversed" just means that
there is a voltage differential between neutral and ground at the boat.
They are supposed to be tied together back at the breaker panel on shore
(not on the dock or on the boat), so there should be no voltage
difference. However if either wire has a bad connection between the boat
and the house then there may be a voltage differential between the
neutral and ground wires at the boat.
Whatever the cause, I would call your electrician back.
Scott
--
Scott Thompson
Surprise, #653
Even if the wires are not reversed you can get this signal if the ground
or neutral wires are unreliable. "Polarity reversed" just means that
there is a voltage differential between neutral and ground at the boat.
They are supposed to be tied together back at the breaker panel on shore
(not on the dock or on the boat), so there should be no voltage
difference. However if either wire has a bad connection between the boat
and the house then there may be a voltage differential between the
neutral and ground wires at the boat.
Whatever the cause, I would call your electrician back.
Scott
Scott Thompson
Surprise, #653
Scott Thompson
Nov 15, 2021, 11:04:55 AM11/15/21
to C320...@catalina320.com
One other thought: The bad connection could be at the shore power
connector on the dock or on the boat, or inside the boat. It's not
necessarily the electricians fault! If your shore power cable is old
then it might be the culprit. Or it could be the shore power inlet on
the boat. These things wear with use. I had to replace my shore power
inlet a few years back when I was consistently getting "reverse
polarity" indications on docks where no one else was getting them. In
any event, please check those items since bad connections can start a fire.
Scott
connector on the dock or on the boat, or inside the boat. It's not
necessarily the electricians fault! If your shore power cable is old
then it might be the culprit. Or it could be the shore power inlet on
the boat. These things wear with use. I had to replace my shore power
inlet a few years back when I was consistently getting "reverse
polarity" indications on docks where no one else was getting them. In
any event, please check those items since bad connections can start a fire.
Scott
Ade Bateman
Nov 15, 2021, 11:30:08 AM11/15/21
to C320...@catalina320.com
This is a good reminder and worth everyone including in their regular checks. When I was in the process of buying my boat, the surveyor found some charring/melting on the shore power connector indicating that it had come close to starting a fire. The connections were all replaced before I completed the purchase. I've since changed out the boat side connections for a SmartPlug.
David Nolte
Nov 15, 2021, 12:06:40 PM11/15/21
to C320...@catalina320.com
Thanks Scott and Ade. The electrician is coming back. If he can’t find a problem I’ll take her to a marina.
David Nolte
Beach House 0004
David Nolte
Beach House 0004
Mike Mellon
Nov 15, 2021, 12:34:27 PM11/15/21
to C320...@catalina320.com
David, you could also try borrowing a known good dock-to-boat power
cable and substituting it for yours and seeing if the problem goes away.
As others have mentioned, because the light is connected between the
ground and the neutral wires in the boat, this problem also arises if
there is a poor cable connection at either the dock outlet or the boat
input connector, especially where the ground connection is intermittent.
Mike Mellon
LaVida 324 1995
--
Michael Mellon
45 Ortalon Ave
Santa Cruz, CA 95060
mme...@cruzio.com
831-425-5583 Home
cable and substituting it for yours and seeing if the problem goes away.
As others have mentioned, because the light is connected between the
ground and the neutral wires in the boat, this problem also arises if
there is a poor cable connection at either the dock outlet or the boat
input connector, especially where the ground connection is intermittent.
Mike Mellon
LaVida 324 1995
Michael Mellon
45 Ortalon Ave
Santa Cruz, CA 95060
mme...@cruzio.com
831-425-5583 Home
Mark Calisti
Nov 25, 2021, 5:22:26 PM11/25/21
to C320...@catalina320.com
I’m doing initial research on an autopilot and leaning towards the Raymarine EV100 Wheel Autopilot Pack. Seems like an easier installation, much lower cost than below the deck options, and meets our relatively simplistic needs. I have the B&G Vulcan chart plotter. It does not appear that B&G has a similar “wheel pack” offering. Anyone with the Raymarine/B&G configuration? If so, would appreciate pros/cons we should assess before purchasing.
Thank you,
Mark Calisti
Solomons, MD
#749
Thank you,
Mark Calisti
Solomons, MD
#749
RONALD HODEL
Nov 25, 2021, 5:45:49 PM11/25/21
to C320...@catalina320.com
All i can say is we have a below deck RAYMARINE autopilot and, yes, installation is easier on a wheel unit, cost is less BUT you will NOT BE SORRY - our is powerful, it’s silent (listen to the wheel steering units), it’s connected to the rudder post so you have redundant steering ability if your chain/cable fails (ours did on our previous boat - it’s quite a trip in a seaway) . . .
Happy thanksgiving
Ron
Lokomaikai #1070
Sent from my iPad
> On Nov 25, 2021, at 2:22 PM, Mark Calisti <mjca...@msn.com> wrote:
>
> I’m doing initial research on an autopilot and leaning towards the Raymarine EV100 Wheel Autopilot Pack. Seems like an easier installation, much lower cost than below the deck options, and meets our relatively simplistic needs. I have the B&G Vulcan chart plotter. It does not appear that B&G has a similar “wheel pack” offering. Anyone with the Raymarine/B&G configuration? If so, would appreciate pros/cons we should assess before purchasing.
Happy thanksgiving
Ron
Lokomaikai #1070
Sent from my iPad
> On Nov 25, 2021, at 2:22 PM, Mark Calisti <mjca...@msn.com> wrote:
>
> I’m doing initial research on an autopilot and leaning towards the Raymarine EV100 Wheel Autopilot Pack. Seems like an easier installation, much lower cost than below the deck options, and meets our relatively simplistic needs. I have the B&G Vulcan chart plotter. It does not appear that B&G has a similar “wheel pack” offering. Anyone with the Raymarine/B&G configuration? If so, would appreciate pros/cons we should assess before purchasing.
pto...@4square.net
Nov 25, 2021, 6:34:48 PM11/25/21
to C320...@catalina320.com
I just converted from the wheel pilot to the under deck ram unit. The wheel pilot just wasn't strong enough to handle strong quartering seas, when you really want it.
Pat Tormey
________________________________
From: C320-list <c320-lis...@lists.catalina320.com> on behalf of RONALD HODEL <ronan...@me.com>
Sent: Thursday, November 25, 2021 5:45:39 PM
To: C320...@catalina320.com <C320...@catalina320.com>
Subject: Re: [C320-list] Raymarine EV100 Wheel Autopilot/B&G Vulcan
Pat Tormey
________________________________
From: C320-list <c320-lis...@lists.catalina320.com> on behalf of RONALD HODEL <ronan...@me.com>
Sent: Thursday, November 25, 2021 5:45:39 PM
To: C320...@catalina320.com <C320...@catalina320.com>
Subject: Re: [C320-list] Raymarine EV100 Wheel Autopilot/B&G Vulcan
Jeff Hare
Nov 25, 2021, 6:42:14 PM11/25/21
to C320...@catalina320.com
There is alot of help available on this list for the below deck AP. We can supply CAD drawings for the backing plate, installation photos and prettymuch all the details.But as others have said, it's well worth the effort. You'll love it.Jeff Hare
-------- Original message --------From: Mark Calisti <mjca...@msn.com> Date: 11/25/21 5:22 PM (GMT-05:00) To: C320...@catalina320.com Subject: [C320-list] Raymarine EV100 Wheel Autopilot/B&G Vulcan I’m doing initial research on an autopilot and leaning towards the Raymarine EV100 Wheel Autopilot Pack. Seems like an easier installation, much lower cost than below the deck options, and meets our relatively simplistic needs. I have the B&G Vulcan chart plotter. It does not appear that B&G has a similar “wheel pack” offering. Anyone with the Raymarine/B&G configuration? If so, would appreciate pros/cons we should assess before purchasing.Thank you,Mark CalistiSolomons, MD#749
-------- Original message --------From: Mark Calisti <mjca...@msn.com> Date: 11/25/21 5:22 PM (GMT-05:00) To: C320...@catalina320.com Subject: [C320-list] Raymarine EV100 Wheel Autopilot/B&G Vulcan I’m doing initial research on an autopilot and leaning towards the Raymarine EV100 Wheel Autopilot Pack. Seems like an easier installation, much lower cost than below the deck options, and meets our relatively simplistic needs. I have the B&G Vulcan chart plotter. It does not appear that B&G has a similar “wheel pack” offering. Anyone with the Raymarine/B&G configuration? If so, would appreciate pros/cons we should assess before purchasing.Thank you,Mark CalistiSolomons, MD#749
Jeff Hare
Nov 25, 2021, 6:46:26 PM11/25/21
to C320...@catalina320.com
Sorry I missed that you already have B&G plotter. Try to stay with single mfgr if possible. That said, the EV200 system is awesome.Jeff Hare
-------- Original message --------From: Mark Calisti <mjca...@msn.com> Date: 11/25/21 5:22 PM (GMT-05:00) To: C320...@catalina320.com Subject: [C320-list] Raymarine EV100 Wheel Autopilot/B&G Vulcan I’m doing initial research on an autopilot and leaning towards the Raymarine EV100 Wheel Autopilot Pack. Seems like an easier installation, much lower cost than below the deck options, and meets our relatively simplistic needs. I have the B&G Vulcan chart plotter. It does not appear that B&G has a similar “wheel pack” offering. Anyone with the Raymarine/B&G configuration? If so, would appreciate pros/cons we should assess before purchasing.Thank you,Mark CalistiSolomons, MD#749
-------- Original message --------From: Mark Calisti <mjca...@msn.com> Date: 11/25/21 5:22 PM (GMT-05:00) To: C320...@catalina320.com Subject: [C320-list] Raymarine EV100 Wheel Autopilot/B&G Vulcan I’m doing initial research on an autopilot and leaning towards the Raymarine EV100 Wheel Autopilot Pack. Seems like an easier installation, much lower cost than below the deck options, and meets our relatively simplistic needs. I have the B&G Vulcan chart plotter. It does not appear that B&G has a similar “wheel pack” offering. Anyone with the Raymarine/B&G configuration? If so, would appreciate pros/cons we should assess before purchasing.Thank you,Mark CalistiSolomons, MD#749
DON LAWSON
Nov 25, 2021, 6:52:49 PM11/25/21
to C320...@catalina320.com
Would like the CAD drawings for the backing plate, if possible. Thank you in advance
dnc...@aol.com <mailto:dnc...@aol.com>
Don Lawson
Mandolin Wind
dnc...@aol.com <mailto:dnc...@aol.com>
Don Lawson
Mandolin Wind
Clay Carter
Nov 25, 2021, 6:54:21 PM11/25/21
to C320...@catalina320.com
No brainer. Raymarine LINEAR drive autopilot. Don’t even think about wheel drive. Seriously. Best investment I ever made.
Clay Carter
> I’m doing initial research on an autopilot and leaning towards the Raymarine EV100 Wheel Autopilot Pack. Seems like an easier installation, much lower cost than below the deck options, and meets our relatively simplistic needs. I have the B&G Vulcan chart plotter. It does not appear that B&G has a similar “wheel pack” offering. Anyone with the Raymarine/B&G configuration? If so, would appreciate pros/cons we should assess before purchasing.
Clay Carter
> I’m doing initial research on an autopilot and leaning towards the Raymarine EV100 Wheel Autopilot Pack. Seems like an easier installation, much lower cost than below the deck options, and meets our relatively simplistic needs. I have the B&G Vulcan chart plotter. It does not appear that B&G has a similar “wheel pack” offering. Anyone with the Raymarine/B&G configuration? If so, would appreciate pros/cons we should assess before purchasing.
Graeme Clark
Nov 25, 2021, 6:58:21 PM11/25/21
to C320...@catalina320.com
Plus one!
Sent from my iPad
> On 25 Nov 2021, at 23:54, Clay Carter <fclay...@yahoo.com> wrote:
>
> No brainer. Raymarine LINEAR drive autopilot. Don’t even think about wheel drive. Seriously. Best investment I ever made.
Sent from my iPad
> On 25 Nov 2021, at 23:54, Clay Carter <fclay...@yahoo.com> wrote:
>
> No brainer. Raymarine LINEAR drive autopilot. Don’t even think about wheel drive. Seriously. Best investment I ever made.
Allan Field
Nov 25, 2021, 7:32:34 PM11/25/21
to C320...@catalina320.com
Buy it cheap, buy it twice!
Allan S. Field
Allan S. Field
Stephen Cox
Nov 25, 2021, 7:37:39 PM11/25/21
to C320...@catalina320.com
sailing it was fine. For decent swells and quartering seas it just proceeded to strip gears. Rebuilt the gearbox twice, then the
backing plate started cracking from all the strain and the belt started slipping as did its replacement. Admittedly part of all
this was my naivety in using an autopilot and not balancing the sails properly the first trip but subsequent trips it still stripped
gears when faced with stronger conditions. Not good to lose the autopilot on an overnight bluewater trip.
If you are looking at linear drives may I suggest you go for a hydraulic system rather than one that uses internal (plastic?) gears.
I now have an Octopus hydraulic linear drive fitted driving a Jefa tiller arm mounted on the rudder stock, all controlled by a
Raymarine SPX30. If you expect to use the autopilot in other than benign conditions, you will end up paying for a decent system.
The question is, do you want to pay for a wheel pilot beforehand as well?
References:
https://octopusdrives.com/products/hydraulic-linear-drives/
https://www.jefa.com/steering/products/rackandpinion/tillerlever.htm
Cheers,
Stephen Cox
Tegwen #1141
Ken McCrimmon
Nov 25, 2021, 7:41:03 PM11/25/21
to C320...@catalina320.com
Hi Mark
I have a Raymarine EV100 Wheel Pilot and like it just fine. I sail in the Great Lakes, so my experience is different than all the salty dogs on here.
I bought a new Raymarine Axiom MFD, so i do not have experience with interfacing to B&G
Ken
________________________________
From: C320-list <c320-lis...@lists.catalina320.com> on behalf of Mark Calisti <mjca...@msn.com>
Sent: November 25, 2021 5:22 PM
To: C320...@catalina320.com <C320...@catalina320.com>
I have a Raymarine EV100 Wheel Pilot and like it just fine. I sail in the Great Lakes, so my experience is different than all the salty dogs on here.
I bought a new Raymarine Axiom MFD, so i do not have experience with interfacing to B&G
Ken
________________________________
From: C320-list <c320-lis...@lists.catalina320.com> on behalf of Mark Calisti <mjca...@msn.com>
Sent: November 25, 2021 5:22 PM
To: C320...@catalina320.com <C320...@catalina320.com>
Subject: [C320-list] Raymarine EV100 Wheel Autopilot/B&G Vulcan
Dell Kronewitter
Nov 26, 2021, 1:16:32 AM11/26/21
to c320...@catalina320.com, C320...@catalina320.com
Hello, I just put in a EV100 wheel drive, SIMRAD display head (with the knob the fishermen use instead of the sailing +1/-1 buttons), a NEC-3 drive (BandG/SIMRAD), and I have a VULCAN 7 chartplotter.
I had to use a saw and cut off some of the plastic clutch piece on the EV100 wheel drive since the new EV100 (grey) are bigger and the clutch would not engage, running into the lower controls. After I cut off about an inch and sanded it down it locks up fine and stays engaged. This setup just got me to Catalina from San Diego and back through some minor squalls so I'm happy so far.
I went with the SIMRAD display head instead of the BandG since B&G was a weird size. The SIMRAD display head fits in the standard size. I could not find a BandG solution which fit into the standard size which seemed super odd. You can make VULCAN 7 +1/-1 setup on the screen, but I guess I'm starting to get used to turning the knob. I really struggled with what to do, but what I came up with seems like a pretty good setup. I had the classic C320 1996 RAYMARINE setup before. I also got a 2nd B&G Triton display which I usually keep on the anemometer parameters.
I saw some underdeck autopilot drive setups on the web, but they looked like a major undertaking. The EV100 works and is much quieter than my old wheel drive.
Best Regards, Dell KronewitterS/V Checkmatey C320 #327
I had to use a saw and cut off some of the plastic clutch piece on the EV100 wheel drive since the new EV100 (grey) are bigger and the clutch would not engage, running into the lower controls. After I cut off about an inch and sanded it down it locks up fine and stays engaged. This setup just got me to Catalina from San Diego and back through some minor squalls so I'm happy so far.
I went with the SIMRAD display head instead of the BandG since B&G was a weird size. The SIMRAD display head fits in the standard size. I could not find a BandG solution which fit into the standard size which seemed super odd. You can make VULCAN 7 +1/-1 setup on the screen, but I guess I'm starting to get used to turning the knob. I really struggled with what to do, but what I came up with seems like a pretty good setup. I had the classic C320 1996 RAYMARINE setup before. I also got a 2nd B&G Triton display which I usually keep on the anemometer parameters.
I saw some underdeck autopilot drive setups on the web, but they looked like a major undertaking. The EV100 works and is much quieter than my old wheel drive.
Best Regards, Dell KronewitterS/V Checkmatey C320 #327
Chris Burti
Nov 26, 2021, 8:26:16 AM11/26/21
to C320...@catalina320.com
I have to add that the linear drive handled it’s chores for us in plus thirty knot winds. The installation was relatively straight forward and the cost would have been much less if I had done the job the last time I replaced the wheel pilot.
Best Regards,
Chris Burti
Farmville, North Carolina
> On Nov 25, 2021, at 7:32 PM, Allan Field <allanf...@gmail.com> wrote:
>
> Buy it cheap, buy it twice!
Best Regards,
Chris Burti
Farmville, North Carolina
> On Nov 25, 2021, at 7:32 PM, Allan Field <allanf...@gmail.com> wrote:
>
> Buy it cheap, buy it twice!
Doug Treff
Nov 26, 2021, 3:28:54 PM11/26/21
to c320...@lists.catalina320.com
I have the Raymarine EV-100 and I agree with all the others. If I had to do over, I would take the time to install the below deck unit. I find the Wheel Pilot to be underpowered for all but calm seas. I use it primarily when motoring in calm weather or sailing on flat water and light winds. I often have issues with the lever coming disengaged as well. I never leave it unattended for more than a minute or two which kind of defeats the purpose of hands-free steering.
Regarding mixing brands, I have a Garmin MFD and it works just fine with my AP. I can steer a course, to a waypoint, and also relative to a wind angle. the NMEA sentences on the network should be standard and it should work for you.
Bottom line, if I had a do-over, and a higher budget, I would choose a below deck system.
--
Doug Treff
do...@treff.us
Regarding mixing brands, I have a Garmin MFD and it works just fine with my AP. I can steer a course, to a waypoint, and also relative to a wind angle. the NMEA sentences on the network should be standard and it should work for you.
Bottom line, if I had a do-over, and a higher budget, I would choose a below deck system.
--
Doug Treff
do...@treff.us
Jeffrey Brown
Nov 26, 2021, 3:36:33 PM11/26/21
to C320...@catalina320.com
I agree 100 %. I have the wheel pilot and regret it each time not spending the money and doing it right.
Jeff Brown
949-350-5123
> On Nov 26, 2021, at 12:29 PM, Doug Treff <do...@treff.us> wrote:
>
> I have the Raymarine EV-100 and I agree with all the others. If I had to do over, I would take the time to install the below deck unit. I find the Wheel Pilot to be underpowered for all but calm seas. I use it primarily when motoring in calm weather or sailing on flat water and light winds. I often have issues with the lever coming disengaged as well. I never leave it unattended for more than a minute or two which kind of defeats the purpose of hands-free steering.
Jeff Brown
949-350-5123
> On Nov 26, 2021, at 12:29 PM, Doug Treff <do...@treff.us> wrote:
>
> I have the Raymarine EV-100 and I agree with all the others. If I had to do over, I would take the time to install the below deck unit. I find the Wheel Pilot to be underpowered for all but calm seas. I use it primarily when motoring in calm weather or sailing on flat water and light winds. I often have issues with the lever coming disengaged as well. I never leave it unattended for more than a minute or two which kind of defeats the purpose of hands-free steering.
Troy Dunn
Nov 26, 2021, 4:00:27 PM11/26/21
to C320...@catalina320.com, c320...@lists.catalina320.com
We have all Raymarine electronics so I can’t comment on compatibility. We
also have the EV-100 Wheel Pilot. The EV-100 has one pro and two fatal
flaws. The first flaw is that it is underpowered for steering a 32’
sailboat in any significant wind. My rule of thumb is if I have to reef,
then I probably can’t depend on "Otto" for steering. The second flaw is
the lack of a rudder reference sensor as part of the standard installation
package. Without a reference sensor, the autopilot is guessing at rudder
position. This can lead to some crazy overcorrections, add in a little
weather helm and you will find yourself unintentionally jibing in no time.
The one pro of course….is the price. Not just the price of the unit, but
the cost to install it if you are paying the yard. Installing a below
deck hydraulic ram and the rudder reference unit is going to set you back
an additional couple grand easy if you have to pay the yard.
If you search you can find great info in past articles and emails on DIY
below deck installs.
Finally, if you decide to install the wheel pilot, I would strongly
recommend at least installing the rudder reference sensor. I bought one
this year and the installation is on my to do list for this winter.
Regards
Troy Dunn
Hull #514
also have the EV-100 Wheel Pilot. The EV-100 has one pro and two fatal
flaws. The first flaw is that it is underpowered for steering a 32’
sailboat in any significant wind. My rule of thumb is if I have to reef,
then I probably can’t depend on "Otto" for steering. The second flaw is
the lack of a rudder reference sensor as part of the standard installation
package. Without a reference sensor, the autopilot is guessing at rudder
position. This can lead to some crazy overcorrections, add in a little
weather helm and you will find yourself unintentionally jibing in no time.
The one pro of course….is the price. Not just the price of the unit, but
the cost to install it if you are paying the yard. Installing a below
deck hydraulic ram and the rudder reference unit is going to set you back
an additional couple grand easy if you have to pay the yard.
If you search you can find great info in past articles and emails on DIY
below deck installs.
Finally, if you decide to install the wheel pilot, I would strongly
recommend at least installing the rudder reference sensor. I bought one
this year and the installation is on my to do list for this winter.
Regards
Troy Dunn
Hull #514
surprise thompson87.com
Nov 26, 2021, 4:36:00 PM11/26/21
to C320...@catalina320.com
I think I was one of the first on the list to install a Raymarine linear drive below-decks autopilot. That was 9 seasons ago and I can honestly say it was the best investment I've made on the boat. The newer wheel pilots are probably better than the one I replaced, but I have no regrets about spending the extra for the below-decks installation.
Scott Thompson
Catalina 320 "Surprise"
Hull 653, 1999
________________________________
From: C320-list <c320-lis...@lists.catalina320.com> on behalf of Jeffrey Brown <ocean...@mac.com>
Sent: Friday, November 26, 2021 3:36 PM
To: C320...@catalina320.com <C320...@catalina320.com>
Subject: Re: [C320-list] Raymarine EV100 Wheel Autopilot/B&G Vulcan
Scott Thompson
Catalina 320 "Surprise"
Hull 653, 1999
________________________________
From: C320-list <c320-lis...@lists.catalina320.com> on behalf of Jeffrey Brown <ocean...@mac.com>
Sent: Friday, November 26, 2021 3:36 PM
To: C320...@catalina320.com <C320...@catalina320.com>
Subject: Re: [C320-list] Raymarine EV100 Wheel Autopilot/B&G Vulcan
Scott Westwood
Nov 26, 2021, 4:45:27 PM11/26/21
to c320...@lists.catalina320.com
I have to agree. I also went with wheel. IMHO go with rudder auto if you can.
I chose wheel because (at the time) I could not get a good answer to the question: can the rudder version jam and I can't disengage? I know I can disengage the wheel version easily.
I have to use a bungee to keep lever engaged but minor issue.
If I had to do again, I would go with rudder version
Sent from AT&T Yahoo Mail on Android
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Today's Topics:
1. Re: Raymarine EV100 Wheel Autopilot/B&G Vulcan (Doug Treff)
2. Re: Raymarine EV100 Wheel Autopilot/B&G Vulcan (Jeffrey Brown)
3. Re: Raymarine EV100 Wheel Autopilot/B&G Vulcan (Troy Dunn)
4. Re: Raymarine EV100 Wheel Autopilot/B&G Vulcan (Troy Dunn)
----------------------------------------------------------------------
Message: 1
Date: Fri, 26 Nov 2021 15:28:27 -0500
From: "Doug Treff" <do...@treff.us>
To: c320...@lists.catalina320.com
Content-Type: text/plain;charset=utf-8
I have the Raymarine EV-100 and I agree with all the others. If I had to do over, I would take the time to install the below deck unit. I find the Wheel Pilot to be underpowered for all but calm seas. I use it primarily when motoring in calm weather or sailing on flat water and light winds. I often have issues with the lever coming disengaged as well. I never leave it unattended for more than a minute or two which kind of defeats the purpose of hands-free steering.
Regarding mixing brands, I have a Garmin MFD and it works just fine with my AP. I can steer a course, to a waypoint, and also relative to a wind angle. the NMEA sentences on the network should be standard and it should work for you.
Bottom line, if I had a do-over, and a higher budget, I would choose a below deck system.
--
Doug Treff
do...@treff.us
On Thu, Nov 25, 2021, at 5:22 PM, Mark Calisti wrote:
> I?m doing initial research on an autopilot and leaning towards the
Message: 2
Date: Fri, 26 Nov 2021 12:36:23 -0800
From: Jeffrey Brown <ocean...@mac.com>
To: C320...@catalina320.com
Content-Type: text/plain; charset=utf-8
I agree 100 %. I have the wheel pilot and regret it each time not spending the money and doing it right.
Jeff Brown
949-350-5123
> On Nov 26, 2021, at 12:29 PM, Doug Treff <do...@treff.us> wrote:
>
> ?I have the Raymarine EV-100 and I agree with all the others. If I had to do over, I would take the time to install the below deck unit. I find the Wheel Pilot to be underpowered for all but calm seas. I use it primarily when motoring in calm weather or sailing on flat water and light winds. I often have issues with the lever coming disengaged as well. I never leave it unattended for more than a minute or two which kind of defeats the purpose of hands-free steering.
Message: 3
Date: Fri, 26 Nov 2021 16:00:11 -0500
From: Troy Dunn <troutw...@gmail.com>
To: C320...@catalina320.com
Cc: c320...@lists.catalina320.com
<CA+rGV8ZRjQyjLcuvSmHMaSJP...@mail.gmail.com>
Content-Type: text/plain; charset="UTF-8"
We have all Raymarine electronics so I can?t comment on compatibility. We
Message: 4
Date: Fri, 26 Nov 2021 16:00:11 -0500
From: Troy Dunn <troutw...@gmail.com>
To: C320...@catalina320.com
Cc: c320...@lists.catalina320.com
<CA+rGV8ZRjQyjLcuvSmHMaSJP...@mail.gmail.com>
Content-Type: text/plain; charset="UTF-8"
We have all Raymarine electronics so I can?t comment on compatibility. We
******************************************
I chose wheel because (at the time) I could not get a good answer to the question: can the rudder version jam and I can't disengage? I know I can disengage the wheel version easily.
I have to use a bungee to keep lever engaged but minor issue.
If I had to do again, I would go with rudder version
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Today's Topics:
1. Re: Raymarine EV100 Wheel Autopilot/B&G Vulcan (Doug Treff)
2. Re: Raymarine EV100 Wheel Autopilot/B&G Vulcan (Jeffrey Brown)
3. Re: Raymarine EV100 Wheel Autopilot/B&G Vulcan (Troy Dunn)
4. Re: Raymarine EV100 Wheel Autopilot/B&G Vulcan (Troy Dunn)
----------------------------------------------------------------------
Message: 1
Date: Fri, 26 Nov 2021 15:28:27 -0500
From: "Doug Treff" <do...@treff.us>
To: c320...@lists.catalina320.com
Subject: Re: [C320-list] Raymarine EV100 Wheel Autopilot/B&G Vulcan
Message-ID: <30e0d006-be64-4046...@www.fastmail.com>
Content-Type: text/plain;charset=utf-8
I have the Raymarine EV-100 and I agree with all the others. If I had to do over, I would take the time to install the below deck unit. I find the Wheel Pilot to be underpowered for all but calm seas. I use it primarily when motoring in calm weather or sailing on flat water and light winds. I often have issues with the lever coming disengaged as well. I never leave it unattended for more than a minute or two which kind of defeats the purpose of hands-free steering.
Regarding mixing brands, I have a Garmin MFD and it works just fine with my AP. I can steer a course, to a waypoint, and also relative to a wind angle. the NMEA sentences on the network should be standard and it should work for you.
Bottom line, if I had a do-over, and a higher budget, I would choose a below deck system.
--
Doug Treff
do...@treff.us
On Thu, Nov 25, 2021, at 5:22 PM, Mark Calisti wrote:
> Raymarine EV100 Wheel Autopilot Pack. Seems like an easier
> installation, much lower cost than below the deck options, and meets
> our relatively simplistic needs. I have the B&G Vulcan chart plotter.
> It does not appear that B&G has a similar ?wheel pack? offering. Anyone
> installation, much lower cost than below the deck options, and meets
> our relatively simplistic needs. I have the B&G Vulcan chart plotter.
> with the Raymarine/B&G configuration? If so, would appreciate pros/cons
> we should assess before purchasing.
>
> Thank you,
> Mark Calisti
> Solomons, MD
> #749
------------------------------
> we should assess before purchasing.
>
> Thank you,
> Mark Calisti
> Solomons, MD
> #749
Message: 2
Date: Fri, 26 Nov 2021 12:36:23 -0800
From: Jeffrey Brown <ocean...@mac.com>
To: C320...@catalina320.com
Subject: Re: [C320-list] Raymarine EV100 Wheel Autopilot/B&G Vulcan
Message-ID: <70C7B917-2281-4FEF...@mac.com>
Content-Type: text/plain; charset=utf-8
I agree 100 %. I have the wheel pilot and regret it each time not spending the money and doing it right.
Jeff Brown
949-350-5123
> On Nov 26, 2021, at 12:29 PM, Doug Treff <do...@treff.us> wrote:
>
>
> Regarding mixing brands, I have a Garmin MFD and it works just fine with my AP. I can steer a course, to a waypoint, and also relative to a wind angle. the NMEA sentences on the network should be standard and it should work for you.
>
> Bottom line, if I had a do-over, and a higher budget, I would choose a below deck system.
>
> --
> Doug Treff
> do...@treff.us
>
>> On Thu, Nov 25, 2021, at 5:22 PM, Mark Calisti wrote:
>> I?m doing initial research on an autopilot and leaning towards the
> Regarding mixing brands, I have a Garmin MFD and it works just fine with my AP. I can steer a course, to a waypoint, and also relative to a wind angle. the NMEA sentences on the network should be standard and it should work for you.
>
> Bottom line, if I had a do-over, and a higher budget, I would choose a below deck system.
>
> --
> Doug Treff
> do...@treff.us
>
>> On Thu, Nov 25, 2021, at 5:22 PM, Mark Calisti wrote:
>> Raymarine EV100 Wheel Autopilot Pack. Seems like an easier
>> installation, much lower cost than below the deck options, and meets
>> our relatively simplistic needs. I have the B&G Vulcan chart plotter.
>> It does not appear that B&G has a similar ?wheel pack? offering. Anyone
>> installation, much lower cost than below the deck options, and meets
>> our relatively simplistic needs. I have the B&G Vulcan chart plotter.
>> with the Raymarine/B&G configuration? If so, would appreciate pros/cons
>> we should assess before purchasing.
>>
>> Thank you,
>> Mark Calisti
>> Solomons, MD
>> #749
------------------------------
>> we should assess before purchasing.
>>
>> Thank you,
>> Mark Calisti
>> Solomons, MD
>> #749
Message: 3
Date: Fri, 26 Nov 2021 16:00:11 -0500
From: Troy Dunn <troutw...@gmail.com>
To: C320...@catalina320.com
Cc: c320...@lists.catalina320.com
Subject: Re: [C320-list] Raymarine EV100 Wheel Autopilot/B&G Vulcan
Message-ID:
<CA+rGV8ZRjQyjLcuvSmHMaSJP...@mail.gmail.com>
Content-Type: text/plain; charset="UTF-8"
We have all Raymarine electronics so I can?t comment on compatibility. We
also have the EV-100 Wheel Pilot. The EV-100 has one pro and two fatal
flaws. The first flaw is that it is underpowered for steering a 32?
sailboat in any significant wind. My rule of thumb is if I have to reef,
then I probably can?t depend on "Otto" for steering. The second flaw is
the lack of a rudder reference sensor as part of the standard installation
package. Without a reference sensor, the autopilot is guessing at rudder
position. This can lead to some crazy overcorrections, add in a little
weather helm and you will find yourself unintentionally jibing in no time.
The one pro of course?.is the price. Not just the price of the unit, but
package. Without a reference sensor, the autopilot is guessing at rudder
position. This can lead to some crazy overcorrections, add in a little
weather helm and you will find yourself unintentionally jibing in no time.
the cost to install it if you are paying the yard. Installing a below
deck hydraulic ram and the rudder reference unit is going to set you back
an additional couple grand easy if you have to pay the yard.
If you search you can find great info in past articles and emails on DIY
below deck installs.
Finally, if you decide to install the wheel pilot, I would strongly
recommend at least installing the rudder reference sensor. I bought one
this year and the installation is on my to do list for this winter.
Regards
Troy Dunn
Hull #514
------------------------------
deck hydraulic ram and the rudder reference unit is going to set you back
an additional couple grand easy if you have to pay the yard.
If you search you can find great info in past articles and emails on DIY
below deck installs.
Finally, if you decide to install the wheel pilot, I would strongly
recommend at least installing the rudder reference sensor. I bought one
this year and the installation is on my to do list for this winter.
Regards
Troy Dunn
Hull #514
Message: 4
Date: Fri, 26 Nov 2021 16:00:11 -0500
From: Troy Dunn <troutw...@gmail.com>
To: C320...@catalina320.com
Cc: c320...@lists.catalina320.com
Subject: Re: [C320-list] Raymarine EV100 Wheel Autopilot/B&G Vulcan
Message-ID:
<CA+rGV8ZRjQyjLcuvSmHMaSJP...@mail.gmail.com>
Content-Type: text/plain; charset="UTF-8"
We have all Raymarine electronics so I can?t comment on compatibility. We
also have the EV-100 Wheel Pilot. The EV-100 has one pro and two fatal
flaws. The first flaw is that it is underpowered for steering a 32?
sailboat in any significant wind. My rule of thumb is if I have to reef,
then I probably can?t depend on "Otto" for steering. The second flaw is
the lack of a rudder reference sensor as part of the standard installation
package. Without a reference sensor, the autopilot is guessing at rudder
position. This can lead to some crazy overcorrections, add in a little
weather helm and you will find yourself unintentionally jibing in no time.
The one pro of course?.is the price. Not just the price of the unit, but
package. Without a reference sensor, the autopilot is guessing at rudder
position. This can lead to some crazy overcorrections, add in a little
weather helm and you will find yourself unintentionally jibing in no time.
the cost to install it if you are paying the yard. Installing a below
deck hydraulic ram and the rudder reference unit is going to set you back
an additional couple grand easy if you have to pay the yard.
If you search you can find great info in past articles and emails on DIY
below deck installs.
Finally, if you decide to install the wheel pilot, I would strongly
recommend at least installing the rudder reference sensor. I bought one
this year and the installation is on my to do list for this winter.
Regards
Troy Dunn
Hull #514
End of C320-list Digest, Vol 4139, Issue 2
deck hydraulic ram and the rudder reference unit is going to set you back
an additional couple grand easy if you have to pay the yard.
If you search you can find great info in past articles and emails on DIY
below deck installs.
Finally, if you decide to install the wheel pilot, I would strongly
recommend at least installing the rudder reference sensor. I bought one
this year and the installation is on my to do list for this winter.
Regards
Troy Dunn
Hull #514
******************************************
Ade Bateman
Nov 26, 2021, 5:14:03 PM11/26/21
to C320...@catalina320.com
Hi Mark,
As you can see from this interesting thread, and the previous versions of this question, there is little doubt that the below deck version is better. I don't think anyone disagrees with that. The main question is whether the wheel pilot can accommodate the sailing you want to do. Will you need the additional power? Is the compromise for not being able to use it in some situations worth the difference in cost? I installed the EV100, and I am happy with the installation. I would have preferred to install the below deck version, but at the time the cost was about 2.5x just for the parts, and the installation would have been more involved, so it was a choice between the wheel pilot and no autopilot. I don't doubt that at some point, when I can afford the time and expense, I will upgrade, but for me for now I am happy with what I have. I'm usually sailing in relatively calm waters and the primary reason I wanted the autopilot was to help depart and return to the marina.
As far as interfacing with B&G, as others have said, the NMEA sentences are the same so that shouldn't be a problem. The ACU-100 controller requires separate power, and then you'll need an adapter to connect both the ACU-100 and the EV-1 sensor, which use SeaTalkNG, to your NMEA-2000 backbone (alternatively, if you're already using SeaTalkNG for other sensors then you're probably already set on that front). Raymarine has a variety of adapters, both cables and solid connectors for connecting to SeaTalkNG.
Ade.
As you can see from this interesting thread, and the previous versions of this question, there is little doubt that the below deck version is better. I don't think anyone disagrees with that. The main question is whether the wheel pilot can accommodate the sailing you want to do. Will you need the additional power? Is the compromise for not being able to use it in some situations worth the difference in cost? I installed the EV100, and I am happy with the installation. I would have preferred to install the below deck version, but at the time the cost was about 2.5x just for the parts, and the installation would have been more involved, so it was a choice between the wheel pilot and no autopilot. I don't doubt that at some point, when I can afford the time and expense, I will upgrade, but for me for now I am happy with what I have. I'm usually sailing in relatively calm waters and the primary reason I wanted the autopilot was to help depart and return to the marina.
As far as interfacing with B&G, as others have said, the NMEA sentences are the same so that shouldn't be a problem. The ACU-100 controller requires separate power, and then you'll need an adapter to connect both the ACU-100 and the EV-1 sensor, which use SeaTalkNG, to your NMEA-2000 backbone (alternatively, if you're already using SeaTalkNG for other sensors then you're probably already set on that front). Raymarine has a variety of adapters, both cables and solid connectors for connecting to SeaTalkNG.
Ade.
pto...@4square.net
Nov 26, 2021, 6:00:14 PM11/26/21
to C320...@catalina320.com
Just to add to the underdeck autopilot notes. The ram connects directly to rudder post which means it'll still steer even if you lose cabling to the quadrant.
BUT beware you need to brace the ram with some pretty hefty backing plates AND you need to buy and modify an Edson rudderpost arm. That'll add a few bucks to the install.
I followed Jeff Hare's advice for my install last year and it went very well.
I have a Garmin 7607 chartplotter and upgraded the network to the RayTalk NMEA 2000 and added a multiplexer device to convert the analog stuff to MEA 2000.
Pat Tormey
Blue Skies s/v
Newport, RI USA
BUT beware you need to brace the ram with some pretty hefty backing plates AND you need to buy and modify an Edson rudderpost arm. That'll add a few bucks to the install.
I followed Jeff Hare's advice for my install last year and it went very well.
I have a Garmin 7607 chartplotter and upgraded the network to the RayTalk NMEA 2000 and added a multiplexer device to convert the analog stuff to MEA 2000.
Pat Tormey
Blue Skies s/v
Newport, RI USA
Ian Neale
Nov 26, 2021, 9:46:16 PM11/26/21
to C320...@catalina320.com
Hi,
We have an EV 100 on the boat and agree it is limited when the going gets a little tougher. This said we are happy with it as we installed it to use in light conditions when motoring or when sailing two handed for sail changes, spinnaker or using the in mast furling which really need two people to keep the sail wrap tight.
In the end I’m depends on when you plan to use the Autopilot. I have noticed it limitations come to the fore when you have a trailing sea, frankly with any sort of decent sized trailing sea I like to be on the wheel as a 320 gets a little wobbly in those conditions.
Cheers, Ian.
Sent from. my iPhone
> On Nov 27, 2021, at 12:00 PM, pto...@4square.net wrote:
>
> Just to add to the underdeck autopilot notes. The ram connects directly to rudder post which means it'll still steer even if you lose cabling to the quadrant.
We have an EV 100 on the boat and agree it is limited when the going gets a little tougher. This said we are happy with it as we installed it to use in light conditions when motoring or when sailing two handed for sail changes, spinnaker or using the in mast furling which really need two people to keep the sail wrap tight.
In the end I’m depends on when you plan to use the Autopilot. I have noticed it limitations come to the fore when you have a trailing sea, frankly with any sort of decent sized trailing sea I like to be on the wheel as a 320 gets a little wobbly in those conditions.
Cheers, Ian.
Sent from. my iPhone
> On Nov 27, 2021, at 12:00 PM, pto...@4square.net wrote:
>
> Just to add to the underdeck autopilot notes. The ram connects directly to rudder post which means it'll still steer even if you lose cabling to the quadrant.
Jack Brennan
Nov 27, 2021, 9:34:01 PM11/27/21
to C320...@catalina320.com
I think the key to the wheel pilot vs. below-deck autopilot debate is how you sail.
If you’re a hard-charging sailor who is not afraid of big seas, you definitely need below decks. Winds of more than 25 knots and 6- to 8-foot seas will overwhelm a wheel pilot. Likewise, carrying too much sail or having it improperly set will do the same.
I do a 600-mile round trip through the Keys and eventually to Key West every spring. The wheel pilot is fine for my purposes. At 15 to 20 knots with seas up to 5 feet, I sail with jib only and average more than 5 knots. With the sail properly set, the wheel is never far off center line.
We always manage to catch some winds up to 30 knots and short, steep seas of up to 7 or 8 feet in the Gulf of Mexico. I want to be at the wheel in those conditions, mostly because there is so much shallow water about, so the wheel pilot is turned off.
My biggest problem with the wheel pilot was, when I first installed it, it would shut down on occasion when winds neared 15 knots. The problem turned out to be the cheap connector Raymarine installed where the power cable reached the motor. I replaced it, and it worked fine after that.
Oh, and the factory didn’t assemble the round part that fits on the wheel correctly. So it came apart and scattered ball bearings all over the cockpit and into the harbor. I sure wasn’t happy about that. Luckily, ball bearings are cheap.
Jack Brennan
Sonas, 1998 Catalina 320
Tierra Verde, Fl.
Sent from Mail for Windows
If you’re a hard-charging sailor who is not afraid of big seas, you definitely need below decks. Winds of more than 25 knots and 6- to 8-foot seas will overwhelm a wheel pilot. Likewise, carrying too much sail or having it improperly set will do the same.
I do a 600-mile round trip through the Keys and eventually to Key West every spring. The wheel pilot is fine for my purposes. At 15 to 20 knots with seas up to 5 feet, I sail with jib only and average more than 5 knots. With the sail properly set, the wheel is never far off center line.
We always manage to catch some winds up to 30 knots and short, steep seas of up to 7 or 8 feet in the Gulf of Mexico. I want to be at the wheel in those conditions, mostly because there is so much shallow water about, so the wheel pilot is turned off.
My biggest problem with the wheel pilot was, when I first installed it, it would shut down on occasion when winds neared 15 knots. The problem turned out to be the cheap connector Raymarine installed where the power cable reached the motor. I replaced it, and it worked fine after that.
Oh, and the factory didn’t assemble the round part that fits on the wheel correctly. So it came apart and scattered ball bearings all over the cockpit and into the harbor. I sure wasn’t happy about that. Luckily, ball bearings are cheap.
Jack Brennan
Sonas, 1998 Catalina 320
Tierra Verde, Fl.
Sent from Mail for Windows
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