Overview

The Garmin 010-12029-00 is a Class B compact drive unit that pairs with the GHP 12 autopilot system to push and pull a sailboat steering linkage from below deck. It is sized for sailboats up to 48,400 lb (24.2 t) of displacement, with a 254 mm (10 in.) stroke and up to 6,900 N (1,551 lbf) of operating thrust at maximum load (intermittent).

Power is supplied as 12 Vdc regulated by the autopilot, and the unit is rated IP67 for water ingress. Even with that sealing, it belongs in an under-deck location that stays dry and is not exposed to flooding or washdown, where the mounting structure can handle the high thrust loads generated at the rudder.

Key features

• Connects to the GHP 12 autopilot system to drive sailboat steering through a quadrant or tiller arm.
• For sailboats up to 48,400 lb (24.2 t) displacement.
• 254 mm (10 in.) stroke; up to 6,900 N (1,551 lbf) operating thrust at max load (intermittent duty).
• 12 Vdc input (regulated by the autopilot); up to 25 A peak current at max load (12.5 A current rating at 100% duty).
• IP67 water-ingress protection; intended for an under-deck mounting area not subject to flooding or washdown.
• Requires physical end stops and must stay within the 10 degree tilt limit at the extremes of stroke to avoid damage.
• 9 kg (19.84 lb) weight; EMC protection to BS EN 60945:2002 (DC) and ignition protection to BS EN 8864:1990.

Compatibility and fit

The drive unit can be linked to an existing steering quadrant or to a tiller arm (not included). The supplied tiller bolt hardware fits a quadrant or tiller arm thickness of 12 to 16 mm (0.47 to 0.63 in.). The actuator travel must be limited by physical end stops so total movement does not exceed 254 mm (10 in.) from fully retracted to fully extended.

Before drilling or bolting anything down, cycle the linkage through the full rudder range and confirm the rod and body never contact the vessel structure, quadrant, or tiller arm. Keep it away from strong magnetic sources; a typical marine speaker should be at least 20 cm (8 in.) from the drive unit.

Installation and setup

Mount the base on a solid surface that can take the steering loads. Supplied M8 fasteners are suited for mounting surfaces 12 to 24 mm (0.47 to 0.95 in.) thick. The four mounting holes are spaced 76.2 mm (3 in.) apart and use 8.8 mm (0.35 in.) holes; mounting bolts are tightened to 17 Nm (12.5 ft-lbf).

Operating temperature limits are -15 to 50 C (5 to 122 F), with a normal operating range of 5 to 35 C (41 to 95 F). Plan the linkage geometry so tilt at the extremes of stroke stays within 10 degrees above or below center.

Electrical and system integration

This drive unit is powered at 12 Vdc (regulated by the autopilot). Allow for up to 12.5 A at 100% duty and up to 25 A peak current at maximum load when sizing the GHP 12 power feed and connections. The attached cables should remain uncut so the drive unit can be connected as intended within the autopilot system.

What's included

• Class B compact drive unit
• M8 mounting bolts, washers, and nuts for the base
• Tiller bolt hardware, including M12 washers, M12 lock nut, and locking pin

Maintenance and care

Inspect mounting and tiller-bolt hardware regularly and tighten if needed. Keep the cylinder rod free of nicks, and keep the rod end and tiller bolt lubricated with marine-grade grease that is compatible with nitrile seals. Avoid exposing the drive unit to salt water.

Safety notice

California Proposition 65 warning: This product can expose you to chemicals known to the State of California to cause cancer, birth defects, or other reproductive harm.

Use on board

This drive unit is a good fit for cruising and performance sailboats that have, or can add, a below-deck quadrant or tiller arm connection point and need an actuator that supports up to 48,400 lb of displacement when paired with a GHP 12 autopilot. It works best in an under-deck space that stays dry, where linkage geometry can be set up with proper end stops and clear travel.