Chart House Marine
Marine Autopilots: Guaranteed Heading Lock & Fuel Efficiency with Expert Installation
At Chart House Marine Electronics, we don’t just install autopilot, we engineer entire steering systems designed for precision and reliability. Whether you’re offshore, trolling, or cruising long distances, our expert team ensures every component, from the hydraulic pump to the heading sensor, is perfectly matched and calibrated for your boat. The result? Smooth, accurate course-keeping and improved fuel efficiency, every time you hit the helm.
Schedule a Free Autopilot System Sizing & Integration Consultation — speak with a marine electronics engineer about your vessel’s exact needs.
The Invisible Components: Where Retail Sourcing Fails.
Most autopilot failures trace back to one thing — incorrect system design.
Online sales and DIY kits don’t account for critical variables like pump sizing, hydraulic volume, or magnetic interference. At Chart House Marine Electronics, every system is engineered from the ground up to ensure perfect balance, power efficiency, and precise heading control.
Your Expertise in Installation:
Hydraulic Pump Sizing Guarantee: We calculate your steering cylinder volume and select the correct hydraulic pump or drive unit to deliver smooth, accurate steering and prevent premature wear or burnout.
Heading Sensor Mastery: We install and calibrate heading sensors in interference-free locations, ensuring pinpoint accuracy and stability even in rough seas.
NMEA Network Integration: We seamlessly integrate your autopilot with your GPS, Chartplotter, and radar — enabling advanced features like route following and automated turns through your MFD.
Chart House Marine
Every Boat Steers Differently — Your Autopilot Should Too.
Each vessel’s steering system demands a tailored approach. At Chart House, we specify, install, and tune your autopilot based on your exact setup — hydraulic, mechanical, or trolling-motor based — for maximum control and reliability.
A. Hydraulic Steering Systems (Power & Precision)
Focus:
Most center consoles, sport fishing boats, and cruisers use hydraulic steering systems requiring a corepack, hydraulic pump, and control head.
Key Consideration:
Proper pump sizing is critical — too small and your response lags, too large and your pump overheats.
Your Service:
We handle complete hydraulic pump installation, hose routing, and system bleeding within manufacturer specifications to ensure flawless steering response and long-term reliability.
B. Mechanical/Cable Steering (Sail & Smaller Power)
Focus:
Ideal for sailboats and smaller powerboats using linear or wheel drive systems.
Key Consideration:
Precise drive unit mounting and low power draw are key for dependable, quiet operation.
Your Service:
We custom mount the drive unit for optimal leverage and minimal mechanical stress — ensuring smooth engagement and consistent rudder control in all conditions.
C. The “Virtual” Autopilot (Trolling Motor Integration)
Focus:
Perfect for freshwater or inshore boats using GPS-enabled trolling motors for autopilot-style control.
Key Consideration:
The trolling motor’s built-in autopilot functions best when properly integrated with your boat’s MFD and GPS network.
Your Service:
We link your trolling motor into the boat’s electronics network, enabling “follow route” and “anchor lock” capabilities directly from your helm display.
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