I have a tiller tamer and an autopilot. They work great as long as I do not shift my position in the boat. But, when I need to go forward (e.g., to place the whisker pole), I easily upset the balance of the boat (I am no heavyweight, 185 lbs.), despite setting the tiller tamer or autopilot. Conclusion -- the tiller tamer and autopilot are great to free my hands to enjoy a cup of coffee, etc., but are no help when I need to reef, go forward, etc. Sincerely, John La Jolla, CA M-15, 628, Bella