Autopilot

G

giangi

New Member
Jan 29, 2012
24
Ft lauderdale, FL
Boat Info
400 Sundancer 1997
Engines
Diesel Caterpilar
Hi everybody:

I have a 1997 400 Sundancer, I always use it for short trips, but this week I am taking a long cruise.
Anybody can tell me where I can get information to use the autopilot? I have a Ray marine radar and plotter
Any information will help a:smt100 lot.
 
Just a suggestion, I would practice with it EXTENSIVLY before using it to navigate a long trip, even if just to ensure that it is working correctly.

If you are going far enough offshore (Bahamas?) that you cant see land, you may not know where you will end up.
 
May I ask an obvious question, what's the difference between using an autopilot for short trips vs. long trips?

If you've used it for short trips (3-5-10nm?), at least it's basic features, and it was working fine I see no reason why it wouldn't do the same for 50-100-200 miles. If you're looking to use different feature other than what you've used on your short trips, then it's a different story. Let us know what you're looking to do differently and most likely you'll get your answers.
 
The difference on long trips is you can cruise all day long and not feel like you're being killed slowly. You can actually look around and enjoy the scenery. Just learn how to set waypoints and check that it's on course periodically. Then break out a sandwhich and eat.
 
Yes, but what's the difference in autopilot functionality? I'm using my auto every time I'm out, regardless if I'm going 10nm or 100nm. The only difference I have in my operation is that on a short run I don't use TRACK. I just set a course/heading and make minor adjustments along the way. On the long trips the TRACK is my favorite feature.

Sandwiches? How about hot meal on the bridge?......LOL
 
Do you have a newer chart plotter so you can track we you are going? If so, more difficult to get "off course" since you can track your route. I assume you know how to use your AP? I just installed a Garmin 740 in my boat and it drives the autopilot...just point to location and hit nav. Sit back and watch. Nice if you had hot sandwiches but I would settle anything the admiral brings up for food.
Good Luck....where is your trip to?
 
Guys, thank you very much for your replies and also you make me laugh.
My trip is only 40 nm but I want to start learning how to use all these features in the boat. I had it for a year and I am still learning.
I have the E-series ray Marine and I suppose is an oldie. I learned how to place the waypoints and now I want how to engage the autopilot.
I will also convinse the Admiral to make some hot sandwiches!
 
I also have E120s and they do a good job. Using the autopilot's basic features is very easy.

When doing this for the first time, get in to the open area and set your course. Hit the AUTO button and now you no longer have control via the steering wheel (the autopilot screen should say "AUTO"). The autopilot has taken over on the course you have set (the bearing). Hit +10 or -10 to alter your course 10degrees to port or stbd. Use +1/-1 to do the same by a single degree. Need 5 deg to port? Hit -1 five times. Need 20 deg to stbd? Hit +10 twice....and so on. Want to steer with the wheel? Hit the STANDBY (the autopilot dysplay should show "STANDBY").

Happy cruising....
 
Thank you Alex.
Your explanation is very simple. I know I have the E series but I don't know if it is the E120.
I have been looking everywhere for the AUTO button but dont see it.
Also I do not have an Autopilot screen, maybe is another separate screen and I do not have it.
I know there is an autopilot in the bilge I saw all connections.
I will look into it with a technician.
I will have to eat my sandwich when I get to destination!
have a nice weekend
 
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