Comnav 1420 autopilot

[WoundUpMarine]

Looking a little at autopilots and they are all crazy expensive. I saw this one in the hamilton catalog and was wondering if anyone has any experience with it. Im just looking for something that will hold a course so i can take my hands off the helm on long trips. I know you get what you pay for, but im just looking for something entry level to get into, thanks for any help!

 

[BHM31]

I've had this unit for 3 years and it's perfect for what you are looking for, a no frills autopilot that will hold a course. Can't beat the price either. Unit comes standard with a fluxgate compass but you can upgrade (at a later date if needed) to a rate speed sensor for around $500 more. Supposed to help on rough days and northerly error.

 

[WoundUpMarine]

Thanks for the reply, thats exactly what i wanted to here, hopefully ill be scrounging up all the hydraulic parts needed when i get home and can get the head unit and can finally let someone else steer the boat!

 

[CaptainJP]

I have an older comnav unit, not sure of the model number, was on the boat when I bought it and since it has worked flawlessly for over two years I've never learned the model number because I haven't had to fix it. Does exactly what I need it to do, holds course and is easily adjustable for the sea state when necessary.

 

[BHM31]

No problem. Unit comes with processor, rudder feedback, fluxgate compass and control head. I have mine connected to an existing reversing pump from a previous autopilot so I had no hydraulic work to deal with. Installation is pretty simple and the hardest part for me was going below deck to run the wiring for the rudder feedback back to the processor. Take your time when you make the connections to the processor because the wires are small and try to make all the connections before you mount your processor.

 

[Wharf Rat]

+1 on the ComNav. Great unit, we've used them on some smaller tugs and workboats, the rudder angle indicator is another nice option.

 

[Spence]

Anybody used one for slow (2kt) trolling? Thanks