Garmin Reactor 40 Kicker Autopilot 010-00705-95 Review

Let’s Talk About Garmin Reactor 40 Kicker Autopilot 010-00705-95

The Garmin Reactor 40 Kicker Autopilot 010-00705-95 promises to be a game-changer for small boat owners, kayak anglers, and canoeists who rely on small outboard motors. Designed specifically for gasoline outboards up to 20 horsepower, this autopilot system aims to provide heading hold and route navigation, freeing up the operator to focus on other tasks like fishing or simply enjoying the ride. Garmin is a well-known brand in the marine electronics industry, and this product intends to bring their reliable autopilot technology to a new segment of boaters.

As someone with over a decade of experience in the outdoor and tactical gear world, including extensive time on the water, I was drawn to the Reactor 40 Kicker Autopilot by the promise of increased efficiency and safety while fishing solo in my small skiff. Maneuvering a small boat while trying to manage fishing lines and tackle can be challenging, and an autopilot seemed like the perfect solution. This model, designed for smaller engines, appeared ideal.

Unboxing the system revealed a well-packaged kit. The components felt solid, and the included GHC 20 autopilot display looked robust. The handheld remote, being floating, was a welcome safety feature.

Compared to other autopilots I’ve seen (typically larger units for sailboats), the Reactor 40 Kicker Autopilot is noticeably more compact and streamlined, appearing perfect for smaller vessels. I had considered a competitor’s trolling motor autopilot, but ultimately chose the Garmin because of its integration with existing Garmin chartplotters and the promise of better heading accuracy.

Initially, I was very excited to install and test the Garmin Reactor 40 Kicker Autopilot. The concept of hands-free navigation on my small boat was incredibly appealing. However, the user feedback I read online detailing issues with throttle control did give me pause for thought.

Real-World Testing: Putting Garmin Reactor 40 Kicker Autopilot 010-00705-95 to the Test

First Use Experience

I tested the Garmin Reactor 40 Kicker Autopilot on a calm lake during a fishing trip. Installation was relatively straightforward, although the instructions could have been clearer regarding the kicker motor mounting bracket. Once installed, I calibrated the system according to the manual.

The directional control worked as expected, holding a steady course and responding accurately to heading adjustments. However, the throttle control was immediately problematic; it was erratic and unresponsive. This mirrored the user feedback I had read prior to purchasing.

After the initial use, I spent hours troubleshooting the throttle issue, checking all wiring connections and consulting the Garmin support documentation. It quickly became apparent that the autopilot was not performing as advertised. This was quite disappointing.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of intermittent use, the throttle control issues persisted. It was not a case of user error; the system simply didn’t provide consistent throttle adjustments. Sometimes it would work briefly, and other times it was completely unresponsive.

Despite careful handling, some of the plastic components on the kicker motor linkage show signs of wear, which concerns me about the long-term durability. Cleaning the system is easy enough, but the throttle linkage requires careful inspection to ensure proper operation. The directional control has continued to work dependably.

The performance of the Reactor 40 Kicker Autopilot has been a letdown; my old manual throttle control offered much better reliability. The inconsistent throttle response has made the autopilot essentially unusable for its intended purpose. It has performed well with directional control, but the lack of throttle control renders it far less useful.

Breaking Down the Features of Garmin Reactor 40 Kicker Autopilot 010-00705-95

Specifications

The Garmin Reactor 40 Kicker Autopilot 010-00705-95 is specifically designed for boats with small gasoline outboard motors up to 20 horsepower. This limits its use to smaller vessels.

The system is designed to help maintain heading and routes, providing hands-free navigation in varying conditions. It includes a convenient floating handheld remote control featuring a bright, sunlight-readable display.

The autopilot is designed to be easy to install and integrate with the included GHC 20 autopilot display, compatible Garmin chartplotters, or NMEA 2000 network-compatible GPS systems. However, user installation experiences appear to vary.

Performance & Functionality

When functioning correctly, the Garmin Reactor 40 Kicker Autopilot offers precise heading hold and route navigation. It has a potentially useful ability to fine-tune the autopilot throttle setting, allowing for quick adjustments to idle speed during fishing. However, the throttle control reliability is a major concern.

The strength of this product lies in its directional control capabilities. The weaknesses are the inconsistent and unreliable throttle control system, as well as questionable component durability.

Unfortunately, due to the throttle issues, the Reactor 40 Kicker Autopilot fails to meet expectations. It is a costly investment that provides limited functionality.

Design & Ergonomics

The Reactor 40 Kicker Autopilot features a compact design, making it suitable for smaller boats with limited space. The materials used in construction feel sturdy, with the exception of some of the plastic components in the throttle linkage.

The system’s user interface on the GHC 20 display is intuitive and relatively easy to navigate. Some aspects of the installation and calibration process are unclear.

Durability & Maintenance

The system’s long-term durability is questionable, particularly concerning the plastic components of the kicker motor linkage. Regular cleaning and inspection are essential to ensure proper operation.

Repairing the system may require specialized knowledge, given the complexity of the electronic components. Potential buyers should consider the cost and availability of replacement parts.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Garmin Reactor 40 Kicker Autopilot 010-00705-95 comes with the necessary components for basic installation, including the GHC 20 autopilot display and a handheld remote. Compatibility with Garmin chartplotters provides additional integration options, such as route planning and waypoint navigation.

Beyond the Garmin ecosystem, customization options are limited. This may disappoint users seeking to integrate the autopilot with non-Garmin systems.

Pros and Cons of Garmin Reactor 40 Kicker Autopilot 010-00705-95

Who Should Buy Garmin Reactor 40 Kicker Autopilot 010-00705-95?

The Garmin Reactor 40 Kicker Autopilot could be perfect for boaters who primarily need precise directional control and already own other Garmin marine electronics. If Garmin resolves the throttle control issues, it could be a solid option for kayak anglers and canoeists seeking hands-free navigation.

Those who require reliable throttle control for trolling or precise speed adjustments should avoid this product until the throttle issues are resolved. Boaters who are not comfortable with troubleshooting complex electronic systems might also find this autopilot frustrating.

A must-have accessory would be a comprehensive troubleshooting guide and a reliable source of technical support from Garmin. A more robust throttle linkage design is required before I would recommend this product.

Conclusion on Garmin Reactor 40 Kicker Autopilot 010-00705-95

The Garmin Reactor 40 Kicker Autopilot 010-00705-95 promises a lot, but unfortunately, it falls short in its current state. While the directional control is accurate and the system integrates well with Garmin chartplotters, the unreliable throttle control is a deal-breaker.

At $2349.99, the price is not justified for a system with such significant flaws. The value proposition is poor until Garmin addresses the throttle control issues and improves the durability of the throttle linkage components.

I would not personally recommend the Garmin Reactor 40 Kicker Autopilot 010-00705-95 until Garmin resolves the throttle control problems. Until then, boaters are better off relying on manual throttle control or exploring alternative autopilot options. Approach with caution.