Raymarine Evolution 200 Autopilot w/old Sharp Rotary Drive

jfalsone · **Joined:** 06 Aug 2020 09:02 **Posts:** 142

I've been researching the possibility of using the old Sharp rotary drive and Edson rack & pinion system that came with the boat (and not functioning) with a new Raymarine Evolution autopilot (with the ACU-200 control unit). It seems that it can be done although some folks have told me not to do it without providing any reason why I shouldn't. My rationale for re-using the old Sharp unit is simple - it is in excellent condition and it already mates perfectly to the boat. The Edson rack & pinion gear fits right over the rudder shaft and should provide very smooth operation. It also provides some redundancy to my steering system. I already have a quite robust new Raymarine electronics suite installed making installation a bit easier.

My company has a model shop (we build high-end naval surface ship and submarine models for testing) and I have access to the facility so my plan is to set up a test bench over the winter and get the whole system sorted. I will document my progress here for anyone interested.

I am very much looking forward to having a proper autohelm installed for longer passage making. I think this system will be fantastic.

puffcard · **Posted:** 16 Nov 2021 23:07

I've never heard of the Sharp autohelm, hope it works for you. I love our below deck autohelms.

jfalsone · **Joined:** 06 Aug 2020 09:02 **Posts:** 142

puffcard wrote:

I've never heard of the Sharp autohelm, hope it works for you. I love our below deck autohelms.

The Sharp Seapilot unit was an outstanding autopilot for its time. The quality of the rotary drive is outstanding.

Tartan37.com

Raymarine Evolution 200 Autopilot w/old Sharp Rotary Drive

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