Upgrade Your Boat's Steering with Reliable Autopilot Power

Imagine gliding across open waters without constantly gripping the wheel— that's the freedom the Raymarine Type 2 Linear Drive brings to mechanically steered vessels. Engineered for boats displacing up to 33,000 pounds (15,000 kg), this 12V drive unit transforms your autopilot system into a seamless partner for long passages, whether you're cruising coastal routes or venturing offshore. Its compact short-stroke design fits snugly into tight engine spaces, delivering robust performance without compromising your boat's handling.

Boat owners rave about how it maintains precise course-holding even in choppy conditions, reducing fatigue on multi-day trips. By integrating with existing mechanical steering setups like rack-and-pinion or cable systems, it preserves the responsive feel you love while adding hands-free convenience.

Precision Engineering for Demanding Marine Environments

At the heart of this drive is a high-torque electric motor paired with an electromagnetic fail-safe clutch. This setup ensures instant response during maneuvers and safe disengagement if needed. The high-tensile belt drive and epicyclic gearbox translate power efficiently, achieving impressive hardover times—typically under four seconds for full rudder travel—while keeping noise levels whisper-quiet for undisturbed navigation.

• Max Thrust: Up to 1,050 lbs for confident control in rough seas.
• Stroke Length: 12 inches, optimized for vessels with standard tiller or wheel steering arms.
• Compact Dimensions (mid-stroke): 7.8" H x 4.5" W x 27.5" L—easy to mount without major modifications.
• Low Power Draw: Efficient operation extends battery life, crucial for extended voyages without shore power.

What sets it apart is the minimal backdrive force. When the autopilot is off, it barely influences your manual steering, letting you steer effortlessly by hand if conditions call for it.

Real-World Performance That Boat Owners Trust

For sailors upgrading from basic tiller pilots, this linear drive shines in maintaining tight tracking lines against wind and current. Its robust construction handles the vibrations and salt spray of real boating life, with corrosion-resistant components built to last seasons of heavy use.

Pair it with Raymarine's Evolution autopilots for plug-and-play integration, or adapt it to compatible hydraulic rams. The result? Smoother passages, fewer adjustments, and more time enjoying the horizon. Skippers report up to 30% less steering effort on autopilot compared to outdated drives, making it a smart investment for family cruisers or serious bluewater boats.

Ideal For:

• Sailboats and powerboats under 33,000 lbs displacement.
• Long-range cruisers needing reliable auto-steering.
• Owners retrofitting older Raymarine systems for modern performance.

Installation Insights for Seamless Setup

Mounting is straightforward with universal bracket options, but success hinges on proper alignment. Position the drive to allow full 12-inch stroke without binding, and use heavy-duty stainless linkages to match your steering geometry. Always torque connections to spec and test in calm water before heading out. Pro tip: Balance the thrust rod to minimize wear, and integrate a dedicated circuit breaker for safety.

Regular maintenance is simple—rinse with fresh water after saltwater exposure, inspect the belt for tension, and lubricate pivot points annually. This keeps it humming reliably year after year.

Frequently Asked Questions