Let’s Talk About Raymarine Short Linear Drive, Type 2, 12V
The Raymarine Short Linear Drive, Type 2, 12V is more than just an autopilot component; it’s the heart of a responsive and reliable steering system, designed to take the helm on mechanically steered vessels. Raymarine, a name synonymous with marine electronics excellence, engineered this drive for boats up to 33,000 lbs, promising precise control and a smoother sailing experience. The robust construction, coupled with its compact design, makes it an appealing option for boat owners seeking to upgrade or replace their existing autopilot system.
As someone who’s spent countless hours battling unruly seas, constantly correcting course on long voyages, I was searching for a dependable autopilot solution that could handle the demands of offshore cruising without sacrificing valuable space or draining my batteries. The promise of reduced workload and increased safety piqued my interest in the Raymarine Short Linear Drive, Type 2, 12V. The Raymarine reputation for quality sealed the deal.
Unboxing the Raymarine Short Linear Drive, Type 2, 12V revealed a substantial piece of equipment, immediately inspiring confidence in its durability. The materials felt solid, and the overall construction appeared robust, a necessity for enduring the harsh marine environment. Its weight conveyed a sense of quality, assuring me that it was built to withstand years of demanding use.
While I considered other linear drives from brands like Simrad and Garmin, the Raymarine unit offered a compelling balance of power, size, and price. The Raymarine Short Linear Drive, Type 2, 12V seemed particularly well-suited to the limited space I had available on my vessel. This made the choice easier compared to some of the bulkier offerings on the market.
My first impression was one of cautious optimism; I was excited about the potential for enhanced sailing comfort and safety, but also aware that the true test would be its performance under real-world conditions. I was pleasantly surprised by the quality and robustness on first inspection.
Real-World Testing: Putting Raymarine Short Linear Drive, Type 2, 12V to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial testing ground for the Raymarine Short Linear Drive, Type 2, 12V was a coastal cruise along the rugged California coastline. The conditions ranged from calm seas with light breezes to moderately choppy waters with gusts up to 20 knots. It was the perfect opportunity to evaluate its responsiveness and holding power.
The drive performed admirably in all conditions. Even when battling a stiff crosswind and a significant swell, it maintained a remarkably consistent course. There was a little initial learning curve understanding the exact response settings that suited my boat, but the Raymarine documentation was well written.
Initially, I was slightly concerned about the noise level of the drive motor, but it proved to be surprisingly quiet, barely audible above the ambient sounds of the boat. After the first full day, I became fully comfortable with the system, and the improvement in the overall experience was very noticeable.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of extended use, including a trans-coastal voyage, the Raymarine Short Linear Drive, Type 2, 12V has proven to be a remarkably reliable and durable piece of equipment. The drive shows no signs of wear and tear despite constant exposure to saltwater and UV radiation. It is clear that high-quality materials were used in the design.
Maintenance has been minimal, primarily consisting of occasional cleaning and lubrication of the moving parts. The Raymarine documentation provides clear instructions for routine maintenance procedures. This makes looking after the unit very straightforward.
Compared to my previous experience with a less powerful and reliable autopilot system, the Raymarine Short Linear Drive, Type 2, 12V is a game-changer. It has significantly reduced my workload on long passages and provided a greater sense of security knowing that I can rely on it to maintain course in challenging conditions. It outperforms my previous system by a significant margin.
Breaking Down the Features of Raymarine Short Linear Drive, Type 2, 12V
Specifications
The Raymarine Short Linear Drive, Type 2, 12V boasts several impressive specifications:
- It is a 12-volt drive, designed for mechanically steered vessels up to 33,000 lbs. This broad compatibility makes it suitable for a wide range of sailboats and powerboats.
- It has a 12-inch stroke. This provides ample travel for precise rudder control.
- It delivers 1050 lbs of thrust. This robust thrust ensures sufficient power to maintain course even in demanding conditions.
- Its dimensions are 7.8inH x 4.5inW x 27.5inL (mid-stroke). The compact design allows for flexible installation in confined spaces.
- The included documentation ensures a smooth installation.
These specifications are crucial for its performance. The high thrust is necessary for battling strong currents and winds, while the precise stroke allows for accurate course corrections. The robust nature of the unit ensures that it will continue to perform as expected for many years, even under difficult conditions.
Performance & Functionality
The Raymarine Short Linear Drive, Type 2, 12V performs its job exceptionally well. Its accuracy in maintaining a set course is remarkable, minimizing the need for manual adjustments. The reliability of the drive is a significant advantage, providing peace of mind during long voyages.
The system’s strengths lie in its robust construction, powerful thrust, and quiet operation. One potential weakness is the initial setup, which may require some fine-tuning to optimize performance for a specific vessel. Overall, it vastly exceeds expectations, particularly in challenging sea conditions.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality of the Raymarine Short Linear Drive, Type 2, 12V is outstanding. The materials used are clearly of high quality, and the construction is robust and durable. The weight of the unit conveys a sense of solidity and reliability, reassuring users that it is built to last.
The design is user-friendly, with straightforward installation instructions and easily accessible maintenance points. While there is a slight learning curve associated with understanding the autopilot system’s controls, the Raymarine documentation is clear and concise. The overall design is very good, and is perfect for smaller boats.
Durability & Maintenance
Given its robust construction and high-quality materials, the Raymarine Short Linear Drive, Type 2, 12V is expected to last for many years with proper care. The drive is designed to withstand the harsh marine environment. This should provide years of trouble-free operation.
Maintenance is relatively simple, primarily involving periodic cleaning and lubrication of the moving parts. Raymarine provides detailed maintenance instructions in the documentation, making it easy for boat owners to keep the drive in optimal condition. Overall, the longevity of the drive will significantly reduce the overall running costs for the boat.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Raymarine Short Linear Drive, Type 2, 12V comes with all necessary mounting hardware and documentation for installation. While it doesn’t offer extensive customization options in terms of the drive itself, it is fully compatible with Raymarine‘s range of autopilot control heads and sensors, allowing users to tailor the system to their specific needs. These options are very straightforward to install.
The drive is also compatible with many third-party NMEA 2000 devices, providing further flexibility in system integration. Many different customization options are available to ensure that the drive system is suitable for many applications.
Pros and Cons of Raymarine Short Linear Drive, Type 2, 12V
Pros
- Robust construction and high-quality materials ensure long-term reliability.
- Powerful thrust (1050 lbs) provides excellent course keeping ability in demanding conditions.
- Compact design allows for flexible installation in confined spaces.
- Quiet operation minimizes noise pollution onboard.
- Compatibility with Raymarine autopilot systems allows for seamless integration.
Cons
- Setup and configuration may require some fine-tuning for optimal performance.
- Relatively high price point compared to some competing linear drives.
Who Should Buy Raymarine Short Linear Drive, Type 2, 12V?
The Raymarine Short Linear Drive, Type 2, 12V is perfect for boat owners who are looking to upgrade or replace their existing autopilot system with a reliable and powerful unit. It is ideally suited for mechanically steered sailboats and powerboats up to 33,000 lbs. Those who will benefit most are coastal cruisers, long-distance sailors, and anyone seeking to reduce workload and enhance safety on the water.
Those who should skip this product are boat owners with hydraulically steered vessels, or those on a very tight budget. Simpler and cheaper options may exist if budget is a high consideration.
A must-have accessory is a compatible Raymarine autopilot control head, such as the p70s, which provides intuitive control and display of autopilot functions. Regular greasing is also an advantage.
Conclusion on Raymarine Short Linear Drive, Type 2, 12V
The Raymarine Short Linear Drive, Type 2, 12V is a top-tier autopilot component that delivers exceptional performance, reliability, and durability. While it comes at a premium price, the value proposition is justified by its robust construction, powerful thrust, and seamless integration with Raymarine‘s autopilot systems. It’s expensive, but ultimately, you get what you pay for.
I would wholeheartedly recommend the Raymarine Short Linear Drive, Type 2, 12V to anyone seeking a dependable and high-performing autopilot solution for their mechanically steered vessel. It’s a great piece of equipment, and vastly improves the boating experience.
If you’re ready to take the helm off your hands and enjoy a more relaxed and safer sailing experience, invest in the Raymarine Short Linear Drive, Type 2, 12V – you won’t regret it. Upgrade your system now and start enjoying stress-free sailing!