Pimp my 08 340

[Alex F]

But they're alot more than that. If you're running a route from your chartplotter, they'll follow it.
They'll steer that "straight line"- automatically compensating for wind and current for the correct course, better than any helmsman. Saves time, and FUEL.

I never used one on a power boat, but have experiense with them on sail boats. I totally agree with you, but I think for the most part the expense can be jastified based on how the boat is used. If the long trips are very rare, then it's not worth it. It also depends on the body of water, wide open ocean where I can see it used the most. But, on smaller bays and rivers it could be diffcult. I think it's very cool and convenient tool to have. If it's not going to cost me arm and a leg, I'll be thinking to install one.

 

[Hampton]

John,

What is the outside diameter of the SS mount or the "rod holder" inside diameter? I'm wondering if I can use a SS 0° angle rod holder and a custom SS pipe with a standard "X" flat plate TV mount...

1 1/4" OD of the pole. There is a plastic insert in the mounting bracket part. The ID of the plastic is therefore about 1 1/4".

 

[carterchapman]

Thanks John.

 

[Bodkin Creek George]

Wow. What a great post. Thanks for getting it started Brett. Is this a great forum or what? And it all started because a hard working, tax paying responsible American couldn't get a loan. Thanks for all the info guys. I have run boats in the Atlantic with an auto pilot and it pays off there. Not sold on the Chesapeake unless you boat from North Beach down to the Va. line. I do however agree that once you run one on a long stretch you won't want to be without it. Scott, what if we truck about 3 or 4 boats up there. You could go in business. Hope the hip is doing fine. Both of mine are great.
George