Autopilot for kicker motor?

[tim]

I could use some opinions, is this the way to go? Purchase an autopilot for the kicker and not the main engine.i want it mainly for trolling.

 

 

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[outback kennels]

garmin tr1 gold


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[mudflat]

I went with a TR1 Gold for my kicker because:

1- My PY has power assisted cable steering  -  If main is not running there is no power steering

2- Not enough room behind helm to install rotary cable drive unit

3- Did not want to listen to a rotary drive unit all day and had concerns about it's durability over  time

4- Did not intend to use AP on main motor - just for trolling

5- Best alternative option was to convert steering to hydraulic and install a hydraulic AP on main and use an EZ  steer to connect kicker - higher overall cost

 

I've been very happy with the TR1 and believe it is why I can get away with a T9.9 kicker motor on a 25' boat.

It is extremely reactive and helps the kicker hold it's course in some challenging conditions - wind, waves, currents.

It is quiet and so far ,5 years, no problems.  If the conditions get too rough for the kicker alone I just start up the main motor, drop in a couple trolling bags and still use the kicker and TR1 to steer and fine tune my speed.

 

If my PY already had hydraulic steering I probably would have gone with a hydraulic AP on the main motor 

Hope this helps

[Mike M]

I'm on my second boat with a TR-1 auto pilot.  Probably the second my important piece of equipment on the boat that helps us  catch fish. My Fishhawk would be # 1 . Love my TR-1 !!!

 

[tim]

I have an old sport pilot plus on now even with power assist that 15hp kicker turns hard with ez steer. So I’m looking to the future.sport pilot can’t last forever


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[hassellmania]

Garmin TR1 was my best investment