Raymarine Type 2 Rotary Autopilot Drive, For Chain and Sprocket Steering, 44,000 lb Max Displacement, 34 Nm Peak Torque

Overview

The Raymarine Type 2 Rotary Autopilot Drive is an electric rotary drive for Raymarine autopilot systems on powerboats and sailboats with steering that can be driven from the helm through a chain and sprocket. It is built for vessels up to 20,000 kg (44,000 lb) displacement and is offered for either 12V DC or 24V DC power systems.

This drive suits cable and rod steering systems where a mechanical chain drive can be added between the drive unit and the boat’s steering shaft. Type 2 performance is rated at 34 Nm (300 lb.in) peak output torque, with a maximum shaft speed of 33 rpm and a recommended hardover-to-hardover time of 10 seconds with no load.

Inside the unit, an electric motor drives a precision epicyclic gearbox through a high tensile drive belt, while an electromagnetic clutch transfers steering loads without slipping. For larger wheel-steered boats that need autopilot control without converting to hydraulic steering, this is the rotary drive style to consider.

Key features

• Type 2 rotary autopilot drive for chain-and-sprocket steering systems, including many cable and rod steering installations.
• Rated for boats up to 20,000 kg (44,000 lb) displacement when matched with the correct autopilot system and steering layout.
• Available in 12V DC and 24V DC versions to match the vessel’s electrical system.
• Works with Raymarine ACU-400 autopilot control units.
• 34 Nm (300 lb.in) peak output torque gives the drive the force needed for heavier steering loads in the Type 2 class.
• Maximum shaft speed is 33 rpm, with a recommended 10 second hardover-to-hardover time under no load.
• Typical average power consumption is 60-84 W on the 12V model and 72-120 W on the 24V model.
• Optional drive sprockets and steering-chain changes may be needed, depending on the vessel’s steering geometry.

Variants

This product is offered in two voltage configurations so the drive can be matched to the boat’s DC power system.

The steering application, Type 2 rating, displacement rating, peak torque, shaft speed, and ACU-400 compatibility are consistent across the two versions. The voltage and typical average power consumption change between variants.

• M81136: Voltage 12V. This version is for boats with a 12V DC autopilot drive circuit and has a typical average power consumption of 60-84 W.
• M81137: Voltage 24V. This version is for boats with a 24V DC autopilot drive circuit and has a typical average power consumption of 72-120 W.

Compatibility and fit

The drive is intended for steering systems that can be operated from the helm through a chain and sprocket. Before installation, confirm that the vessel’s steering shaft can accept the required sprocket arrangement and that the steering system can be moved freely through its full travel without binding.

This is not a drop-in replacement for every steering system. The correct sprocket sizes, chain path, mounting position, and course computer or ACU match should be checked as part of the autopilot installation plan.

Installation and setup

The unit must be mounted where it can be secured firmly, aligned correctly with the steering sprocket, and reached later for inspection or service. The mounting arrangement uses slots that accept 12 mm bolts, and the chain run should be set up so it transfers load cleanly without side loading the drive shaft.

Electrical connections should be made with the power supply switched off and with cable sizing suitable for the total cable run to the autopilot course computer or ACU. On boats with longer cable runs or higher steering loads, correct wiring and overcurrent protection are especially important for consistent autopilot performance.

Use cases on board

This drive is a practical match for larger sailboats and powerboats with mechanical steering that need autopilot control for coastal passages, offshore runs, fishing days, or long hours under power. It is most relevant where the boat already has, or can be adapted to, a chain-and-sprocket steering drive arrangement.