Overview

The Simrad 000-15951-001 is a NAC-1 Precision Hydraulic Pilot Pack that adds autopilot steering to a 12 V hydraulic system using the PUMP-1 MkII 0.8L reversible pump and a Precision-9 heading sensor.

It is recommended for boats up to 9 m (30 ft) in length and runs from a 12 V DC supply; the NAC-1 accepts 9 to 16 V DC and can drive up to 8 A continuous (16 A peak) to the steering drive.

The Precision-9 connects over NMEA 2000 and supplies heading and rate-of-turn data (plus or minus 2 degrees heading accuracy after calibration). With a compatible Simrad multifunction display on the same NMEA 2000 network, the system supports steering to a set heading, course, or route, along with turn patterns.

Key features

• Complete hydraulic pilot pack with NAC-1 autopilot computer, PUMP-1 MkII reversible pump, and Precision-9 compass sensor
• Recommended for vessels up to 9 m (30 ft) in length
• 12 V system support with a 9 to 16 V DC input range at the NAC-1
• Drive output rated up to 8 A continuous with 16 A peak (1 second) motor control
• PUMP-1 MkII 0.8L geared reversible hydraulic pump for outboard-style reversible pump steering circuits
• Precision-9 outputs heading, rate of turn, pitch, and roll over NMEA 2000 and is rated IPX7
• NAC-1 rated IPX5 for splash resistance when mounted in a protected location
• NMEA 2000 Micro-C connectivity (single port) for networked displays and sensors
• Plug-and-socket connectors help keep wiring clean and reduce install time
• Auto/Standby dash button included for quick engagement and disengagement at the helm

Compatibility and fit

This pack is intended for boats with hydraulic steering that can accept a reversible pump in the steering circuit. The included PUMP-1 is compatible with SeaStar manual helm pumps up to 14 cubic inches, which is a useful sizing check on many outboard and sterndrive installations.

The system uses NMEA 2000 (Micro-C) to connect the heading sensor and compatible displays. Plan your backbone so it reaches the helm, the NAC-1 mounting location, and the sensor mounting location; the included network accessories cover common extension and termination needs, but larger installs may require additional backbone parts.

Installation and setup

Mount the NAC-1 on a bulkhead inside a console or locker where it stays protected from direct spray but still has airflow and service access. Power it from your 12 V DC distribution with an appropriate 20 A fuse and keep battery-negative returns clean to avoid voltage drop when the pump is working.

Install the Precision-9 away from magnetic sources such as speakers, large motors, and steel hardware, then complete calibration during setup. Plumb the PUMP-1 into the hydraulic lines using the ORB steering fitting kit, bleed the steering system thoroughly, and perform a sea trial so the autopilot can learn your boat.

Use cases on board

This setup fits boats where you want hands-off steering on longer runs, trolling passes, or while following a route and keeping a close watch on traffic and gear. It also suits installs where adding a separate rudder feedback sensor is not practical, since the NAC-1 supports virtual rudder feedback on many outboard and sterndrive planing hull setups.

What’s included

• NAC-1 autopilot computer
• MKII PUMP-1 (12 V, 0.8L) hydraulic pump
• Autopilot pump fitting kit for ORB steering system
• Auto/Standby button (metal)
• N2KEXT-2RD 0.61 m (2 ft) NMEA 2000 cable
• N2KEXT-6RD 1.82 m (6 ft) NMEA 2000 cable
• N2KEXT-15RD 4.55 m (15 ft) NMEA 2000 cable
• TR-120-KIT terminators (1 male and 1 female)
• Micro-C power cable (no T-connector)
• Low-loss NMEA 2000 4-way joiner
• Precision-9 compass