Overview

The Garmin 010-11572-00 is a Class A linear drive unit for sailboat autopilot steering systems on vessels up to 28,500 lb (12,927 kg) of displacement. It extends and retracts to move the rudder through a quadrant or a dedicated tiller arm, with a 12 in (303 mm) maximum stroke.

On a typical installation, physical end stops on the steering system must limit travel so the drive is not acting as the stop, and the unit needs to be mounted in a location that stays dry and protected from immersion, drips, and hose spray. Plan space around the actuator movement and linkage, and allow for cable routing without cutting the attached cables.

Key features

• Rated for sailboats up to 28,500 lb (12,927 kg) displacement
• Self-contained linear actuator that drives the rudder by extending and retracting
• 12 in (303 mm) maximum stroke; end stops should limit travel to 11.57 in (294 mm) to avoid over-travel
• Runs on 10 to 30 VDC for use on 12V and 24V electrical systems
• Average motor draw of 1 to 2 A; average clutch current of 0.5 A at 12V for power budgeting
• Requires a dry mounting location out of immersion, dripping water, and hose spray
• Mounting reference dimensions: 25.71 in (653 mm) base-to-tiller pin retracted, 31.5 in (800 mm) amidships, 37.28 in (947 mm) extended

Compatibility and fit

This drive is intended to steer a rudder through a quadrant or a tiller arm sized for your boat’s rudder post. The linkage point geometry matters for proper rudder travel and for keeping the actuator within its safe working range, so measure the available space and confirm clear movement through full port and starboard.

For planning the install envelope, the centered body size is approximately 32.3 in x 6.5 in x 6.1 in (820 x 165 x 155 mm). Operating temperature range is -15°C to 60°C (5°F to 140°F).

Installation and setup

Drive placement should keep the motor and linkage free of contact with the hull structure, quadrant, and any adjacent systems throughout the entire stroke. Mounting with the motor oriented sideways helps reduce unnecessary friction compared with mounting straight up or down.

The drive unit must be protected from water exposure. Treat it like equipment meant for an inside steering compartment rather than a bilge, lazarette floor, or any area that sees washdown spray.

Electrical and system integration

Power is designed around 10 to 30 VDC, which fits common 12V and 24V onboard electrical systems. Use the current draw figures when sizing wiring and protection, and route the factory-attached cables so they are supported and protected from chafe near steering gear and moving linkage.

This unit is used as part of a Garmin autopilot installation for sailboats and connects to the appropriate autopilot components per the system’s installation guidance.

Maintenance and inspection

Plan for a quick annual check of all bolted connections and linkage hardware, tightening as needed after a season of vibration and steering loads. Inspect the drag-link fastening and confirm the end stops are still doing the work of limiting travel rather than the drive unit.

This is a good match for larger cruising sailboats that use a quadrant or tiller-arm linkage and have a protected steering compartment where the drive can stay dry. It also fits boats running either 12V or 24V electrical systems, as long as supply voltage stays within 10 to 30 VDC.