Tiller Pilots

  • January 15, 2026 2:05 PM
    Message # 13585828

    I am looking to install a tiller pilot on my Westsail 28 (Tuaq). I am looking at the Simrad TP 22 or 32. However, digging into the specs, it appears that although they are for boats up to 37 feet, they are not recommended for boats over 5.7 tonnes displacement (12,600 pounds)--less than my boat. The Raymarine options also seem to only go up to about 10,000 pounds displacement. Has anybody used the Simrad TP 22 or 32 on their WS28? Does anybody know of other options? I am looking for something simple for coastal cruising, not long passages. Thank you for your thoughts, Devin

  • January 15, 2026 3:07 PM
    Reply # 13585854 on 13585828

    We have a Simrad , I forget the # , it must be the 32 . Mainly we use it to hold the boat on course when motor sailing , I have also sailed with it . It works fine for both those things . I have never tacked with it , although I suppose it would  . It lacks a little travel so I haven't tried . I remember that light rating for the Simrad but it never bothered me because I knew we were never going to max it out . Of course sail trim is important , you want to keep weather helm light . Scanmar International makes a heavy duty AP .

    https://pelagicautopilot.com/collections/front-page/products/pelagic-autopilot-system-with-tille

    Congratulations on Tuaq .

    Last modified: January 15, 2026 3:23 PM | Anonymous member
  • January 31, 2026 7:13 AM
    Reply # 13592300 on 13585828

    Hi Devin

    On our WS28 we have a TP32, but never use it we juste bought the boat few months ago...

    Patrick

  • February 21, 2026 8:09 AM
    Reply # 13600700 on 13585828

     I fit Starwhite with a Raymarine GranPrix Tillerpilot about 20 years ago, it has worked great!  I believe the newest version is called the Evolution EV100.  

    But, the Pelagic autopilot appears to be as good or better and is priced at half as much Raymarine.  

    Keeping the boat balanced undersail is the key to getting the best control from your autopilot.

    Kevin

  • February 22, 2026 5:16 PM
    Reply # 13600994 on 13585828

    Any of the Simard pilots will be okay for motoring and sailing with a balanced helm. Once you have a lot of pressure on the tiller while sailing, the Simrad and Raymarine stand alone tiller pilots will not work any longer. The Evolution 100 by Raymarine or the Pelagic will work even with considerable weather helm.

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