I have a ST-1000 that I transferred from my WWP-19 and I could not live with out it. I do not have the GPS tied into it I just use it as my "crew" when I am pulling up fenders, making sail adjustments, or as you suggest letting it steer while I take in the view. The unit does have a tacking function which would also be great for singlehanding, but I have not been able to get that feature to work so far. For just holding a cource the unit works great, and only gets chalanging in a following sea. Not too hard to install, there are various brackets and hardware you can get to set it up just right. Jim Ellsworth M-17 #603 Grace -----Original Message-----
From: Gordon Gilbert <Gordon@FinancialWriting.net> Sent: Nov 17, 2009 10:33 AM To: For and about Montgomery Sailboats <montgomery_boats@mailman.xmission.com> Subject: M_Boats: Pondering a tiller pilot
One of the upgrades I've been considering for my M-17 is a tiller pilot. However, I have mixed feelings about such a device as I enjoy the intimacy with the water environment a small craft allows--and I wonder if too much "automation" will detract from that. Plus, I believe in the KISS approach to boat-keeping. But on a couple of cruises this past summer I had some long stretches of motoring (six hours returning from Isle Royale) or hours-long no-tacking sailing legs where a tiller pilot would have allowed me to brew a cup of joe or make a sandwich or just enjoy the view from the boat's bow.
Having said all of that, I'm curious as to how many Monty owners have installed tiller pilots on their boats. If you have, what brand did you choose, how did the installation go and how has it worked out? Does the pilot work well? Do you use it as much as you anticipated? I would enjoy getting your input, advice or opinions. Thanks!
Gordon '83 M-17 #377 "Sapphire" Milwaukee, WI
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