Raymarine Wheel Pilot, EV-100 p70 Pack Review

Let’s Talk About Raymarine Wheel Pilot, EV-100 p70 Pack

Sailing, for me, has always been about freedom and connection with the sea. However, long voyages, especially single-handed or with a small crew, can be physically and mentally demanding. That’s where the Raymarine Wheel Pilot, EV-100 p70 Pack comes in, promising to be an extra hand on deck, steering the course while I focus on navigation, sail trim, or simply enjoying the journey.

I was drawn to this particular autopilot system because of Raymarine‘s reputation for reliability and the EV-100’s suitability for sailboats up to 16,000 lbs displacement, which perfectly matches my vessel. My primary need was a dependable autopilot that could maintain a steady course in varying sea conditions, reducing fatigue and allowing me to manage other essential tasks. The promise of the EV-1 sensor intelligently adapting to changing conditions was a key selling point.

Upon unboxing the Raymarine Wheel Pilot, EV-100 p70 Pack, I was immediately impressed by the robust construction of the components. The wheel drive actuator felt solid and well-made, inspiring confidence in its ability to handle the demands of offshore sailing. The p70 control head was sleek and intuitive, promising ease of use even in challenging conditions.

I considered the Simrad TP22 and the Garmin Reactor 40 Hydraulic Autopilot before settling on the Raymarine system. I chose the Raymarine due to its integrated wheel drive, which simplified installation on my wheel-steered boat, and the EV-1 sensor’s advanced capabilities. It was the best fit for my specific needs and boat configuration.

My initial impression was excitement mixed with anticipation. I was eager to install the system and experience its capabilities firsthand, hoping it would live up to its promise of effortless and reliable steering.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Raymarine Wheel Pilot, EV-100 p70 Pack to the Test

First Use Experience

My first real test of the Raymarine Wheel Pilot, EV-100 p70 Pack was during a coastal passage from Annapolis, MD to Cape May, NJ. This involved approximately 150 nautical miles of sailing in the Chesapeake Bay and the Atlantic Ocean. The conditions ranged from calm seas and light winds to moderate chop and gusts up to 20 knots.

The autopilot performed admirably in all conditions. It maintained a remarkably steady course, even when the wind shifted or the waves increased. Getting the hang of it was simple. The p70 control head’s intuitive interface made it easy to engage the autopilot and adjust the course as needed.

I did notice that the wheel drive actuator was somewhat noisy during operation, particularly in calm conditions when there was less ambient noise to mask it. This was a minor annoyance but didn’t detract from the overall performance.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months and over 1000 nautical miles of use, the Raymarine Wheel Pilot, EV-100 p70 Pack has proven to be a reliable and valuable addition to my sailing setup. It has held up exceptionally well to the rigors of coastal cruising and offshore passages. There are no significant signs of wear and tear.

Routine maintenance has been minimal, primarily involving occasional cleaning of the wheel drive actuator and visual inspection of the wiring connections. The system has consistently outperformed my expectations, providing accurate and dependable steering in a wide range of conditions. This is a significant improvement over previous experiences with less sophisticated autopilots.

Breaking Down the Features of Raymarine Wheel Pilot, EV-100 p70 Pack

Specifications

The Raymarine Wheel Pilot, EV-100 p70 Pack is designed for wheel-steered sailboats with a maximum displacement of 16,000 lbs. The pack includes the EV-1 sensor, ACU-100 (Actuator Control Unit), p70 control head, and wheel drive actuator. The EV-1 sensor provides precision monitoring of heading, pitch, roll, and yaw.

The solid-state sensor technology delivers dynamic accuracy to within 2 degrees in all conditions. This is crucial for maintaining a steady course in challenging seas. The system also features auto-compensation for onboard magnetic fields, ensuring reliable heading accuracy in both northern and southern latitudes. This is particularly beneficial for long-distance cruisers.

Performance & Functionality

The Raymarine Wheel Pilot, EV-100 p70 Pack excels at maintaining a precise heading, significantly reducing the need for manual steering. It is reliable even in strong winds and choppy seas. The autopilot generally meets and often exceeds expectations.

The system’s primary strength lies in its ability to adapt to changing conditions, thanks to the EV-1 sensor’s intelligent algorithms. One minor weakness is the noise generated by the wheel drive actuator. The issue is more noticeable in calmer conditions.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality of the Raymarine Wheel Pilot, EV-100 p70 Pack is excellent, with robust components designed to withstand the marine environment. The wheel drive actuator is constructed from durable materials and feels solid and well-engineered. The p70 control head is user-friendly, with a clear display and intuitive controls.

The system is relatively easy to install, although some basic electrical and mechanical skills are required. The p70 control head has a slight learning curve. The ease of use is high after spending a small amount of time.

Durability & Maintenance

With proper care and maintenance, the Raymarine Wheel Pilot, EV-100 p70 Pack is expected to last for many years. The system is designed for the harsh marine environment. Routine maintenance primarily involves cleaning the wheel drive actuator and inspecting the wiring connections. Repairing and replacing components is straightforward, with readily available parts.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Raymarine Wheel Pilot, EV-100 p70 Pack includes the necessary components for a complete autopilot system. These components include the EV-1 sensor, ACU-100, p70 control head, and wheel drive actuator. While the system is primarily designed as a standalone unit, it can be integrated with other Raymarine electronics, such as chartplotters and radar systems, via SeaTalkng connectivity.

The integration allows for advanced features like waypoint navigation and wind steering. The system is compatible with a variety of Raymarine accessories, including remote controls and additional control heads. These accessories allow for more flexible operation and control of the autopilot.

Pros and Cons of Raymarine Wheel Pilot, EV-100 p70 Pack