Overview

The Simrad 000-13899-001 is an autopilot pack that combines the A2004 rotary control head, an AC70 autopilot computer, and an RF300 rudder feedback sensor with a 10 m cable.

At the helm, the A2004 uses an optically bonded 4.1-inch color display (320 x 240) with a 170 degree viewing angle and NMEA 2000 connectivity. Below deck, the AC70 handles the drive outputs and system I/O, including an IEC 61162-1 (NMEA 0183) RX/TX channel, with a 12/24 V DC drive supply path protected by a 30 A fuse.

The RF300 provides variable frequency rudder angle feedback for inboard steering systems, draws up to 40 mA from CAN at 12 to 16 V, and carries an IPx6 water rating. A heading sensor/compass and a compatible drive unit are needed for a complete autopilot system and are not part of this pack.

Key features

• Bundled set for an inboard autopilot: A2004 control head, AC70 pilot computer, RF300 rudder feedback with 10 m cable
• A2004 4.1-inch optically bonded color display (320 x 240) with 170 degree viewing angle
• Control head supports flush or bracket mounting and connects via NMEA 2000
• AC70 drive computer for reversible motors/pumps or non-isolated solenoids, with frequency rudder feedback input
• One IEC 61162-1 (NMEA 0183) RX/TX channel plus NFU remote control connection on the AC70
• AC70 drive circuit supports 12/24 V DC drive supply and is protected by a 30 A fuse
• RF300 is IPx6 rated and can mount horizontal, vertical, or upside-down; keep 0.5 m from compasses/heading sensors
• RF300 power is supplied over CAN (12 to 16 V) and current draw is up to 40 mA; size is 99 x 65 x 177 mm and weight is 0.5 kg

What's included

• RF300 Feedback w/10M cable & Link
• A2004 Rotary Autopilot Head
• Simrad AC70 Autopilot Computer
• A2004+AC70+RF300 KIT PACK LABEL

Compatibility and fit

This pack is built around a rudder-referenced autopilot setup, where the pilot computer needs a real rudder angle signal rather than estimating steering position. The RF300 feedback sensor is intended for boats with inboard engines, and it reports rudder movement back to the autopilot computer for smoother steering control.

On the network side, plan for an NMEA 2000 backbone and the normal on-board power distribution used for autopilot drives and electronics. If your vessel is already running a heading sensor and drive, this kit can be used as the control head, pilot computer, and rudder feedback core, but those other components are still required for a complete system.

Installation and setup

The A2004 can be mounted at the helm as a flush install or on a bracket, which helps on open consoles or wheelhouses where you want the screen in a protected sight line. The rotary dial and dedicated keys are laid out for quick changes in steering mode, even when your hands are wet or in gloves.

Mount the RF300 so it moves smoothly with the rudder quadrant or tiller arm across the full steering range, then set rudder limits and feedback direction during commissioning. Keep the unit about 0.5 m away from any compass or heading sensor. The included 10 m cable helps you place it where the linkage geometry is right instead of forcing it into a tight wiring corner.

Install the AC70 in a dry, serviceable location close to the drive wiring. Leave room for cable strain relief and for access to terminals and fusing during troubleshooting.

Use cases on board

This pack suits larger inboard boats and commercial-style helms where a dedicated controller and true rudder feedback matter for long runs in wind and tide. It also fits refits where you are updating the pilot computer and control head together while keeping an existing drive and heading source.