A $2,000–$4,000 autopilot fails for one predictable reason: the drive does not match your steering system. Get the drive type right first; brand second.
How do I know my drive type?
- Hydraulic: Most outboards and sterndrives with hydraulic helm pumps — Garmin Reactor 40 Hydraulic corepack plus a 1.2L pump kit.
- Mechanical/cable: Some smaller boats — verify with your steering manufacturer before ordering.
- Sailboat: Below-deck or wheel drives — Raymarine EV-400 is a common high-end hydraulic pick for larger sail hulls; B&G Triton² for sailing packages.
- Outboard-specific: Simrad AP70 Mk2 pairs with NSS displays on fishing boats.
Common question: Do I need a separate pump?
Garmin hydraulic corepacks do not include the pump — size 1.2 L or 2.0 L to your cylinder volume. Undersized pumps hunt; oversized pumps overshoot.
Common question: Will it follow routes from my chartplotter?
Yes, when MFD and autopilot share NMEA 2000 and firmware is current. Garmin-to-Garmin and Simrad-to-Simrad is plug-and-play; mixed-brand needs planning.
Tell us your hull type, steering system, and existing MFD for a drive recommendation before you buy.
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