Opinions on Raymarine ST8001 S1G for Twin OBs?

RideSober · 10-08-2009, 08:00 PM

I'm thinking about an auto pilot for my 31' Center Console, and have used a lower priced Raymarine AP in the past. Now I have started seeing listing for the Raymarine ST8001 S1G hydraulic outboard kit that includes control head, fluxgate compass, linear rudder feedback, and pump, and includes "Advanced Steering Technology"and bulit in rate gyro...

There is another package that is a little less expensive that seems to include all the same components but without Advanced Steering Technology, not sure what the difference would be.

Any thoughts on these autopilots?

If you have used them any pros or cons?

If you have installed them any comments on the install?

Thanks! Dave

Glen E · 10-09-2009, 03:34 AM

Ray has renovated their entire AP line - no matter how cheap you can get the 6000-8000 series for, get the x-10 series - it's in a whole 'nother league the the 8000's.....

gerg · 10-09-2009, 04:56 AM

I had a 6001SG1 on a 25 parker with twins (DV, heavy boat, used offshore), and it worked great. No issues whatsoever.

But I agree with glen, get the newer line.

offshorebri · 10-09-2009, 05:14 AM

I have inboards so I will say that first.......But I have had 500 hours , 4 trouble free years with a 8001G

marinerjoe · 10-09-2009, 08:45 AM

The 8001 is the control head. It provides ease of use over the 6001 I had because it has that rotary control knob. However, it is a bit larger than the 6001/6002.

I had the S1G on my Wellcraft 290 Coastal with twin Evinrudes, and it worked GREAT! The only thing you'll need to change is the linear rudder reference unit (RRU) for a rotary RRU if you have Teleflex steering with the rotary cylindar. The linear RRU will eat itself up as it twists as it moves in and out. The "potted" rotary RRU I replaced on my Wellcraft did the job and worked flawlessly.

Spend the extra and go with the "G" and you will NOT be disappointed.

Glen E · 10-09-2009, 09:06 AM

or buy a x-10 and have no rudder ref at all....

tenseven · 10-09-2009, 09:10 AM

hey glen, what is the price on that x-10?

Glen E · 10-09-2009, 09:43 AM

about 3.5K on the street...

RideSober · 10-09-2009, 10:39 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Glen E

about 3.5K on the street...

Thanks for all the feedback, I'm sure the X10 is very nice and would work just great, but since it is more than $2000 more than than the ST8001, it won't be going on my boat anytime soon. I'll just have to make do with the ST8001, but thanks for the input.

marinerjoe · 10-09-2009, 10:59 AM

RideSober - good luck with the S1G system. Just DON'T FORGET to check on the RRU. You'll save yourself some SERIOUS headaches later on.

Glen E · 10-09-2009, 11:44 AM

good luck - just realize everything your are buying is over 4 years old as the 8001 is not even in the 2005 price guide. Software is gonna get hard to get soon...ANY AP for a 31 foot boat that is less than $2500 is asking for trouble long term...just my .02

Elusive · 10-09-2009, 12:57 PM

For outboards you need a potted Rotary Reference Unit. Don't even try the linear units.

I have the ST6002/S1G and after getting it dialed in, it works fine

If you are buying new, I would agree with the others about buying new technology.

I'm replacing all of my electronics. If interested in the A/P, PM me