Overview

The Garmin 010-11053-01 is an Electronic Control Unit (ECU) for the GHP Compact Reactor hydraulic autopilot system. It sits between the Course Computer Unit (CCU) and the hydraulic pump, powering both and driving the pump when the CCU calls for a steering correction.

The ECU connects to a 12 to 24 Vdc supply and is normally mounted close to the pump, with a maximum separation of 0.5 m (19 in.). On most installs it lives in a console, locker, or machinery space that stays dry and out of direct washdowns.

This is a system component, not a standalone autopilot controller. It is typically used when replacing a failed ECU or completing a refit where the rest of the GHP Compact Reactor hydraulic package is already in place.

Key features

• Connects and powers the CCU and the hydraulic pump, controlling the pump based on information received from the CCU
• 12 to 24 Vdc power input for common 12 V and 24 V onboard electrical systems
• Mount within 0.5 m (19 in.) of the pump; the cables between the ECU and pump cannot be extended
• Can be mounted on a flat surface facing any direction, provided the location will not be submerged or exposed to wash down
• ECU power cable runs to the boat battery and can be extended using the correct wire gauge for the length of the extension
• In-line fuse holder is part of the power lead; if powering from a terminal block or other source, protect the feed with a 40 A fuse

Compatibility and fit

This ECU is for the Garmin GHP Compact Reactor hydraulic autopilot system and is one of the main system components alongside the CCU and hydraulic pump. It is intended to be installed with the matching GHP Compact Reactor components and cabling so the ECU can receive steering commands from the CCU and apply them through the pump.

For system control and setup, the helm control or a compatible Garmin chartplotter and the CCU must be on the same NMEA 2000 network. If your installation does not use a dedicated helm control, the chartplotter connection is how the autopilot is configured and controlled.

Installation and setup

Pick the ECU location after you have planned the pump location. The ECU must be close to the pump, and the pump cables are not extendable, so measure before drilling. The unit can be oriented in any direction on a flat mounting surface, but keep it out of bilge water and away from areas that get regular hose-down spray.

Run the ECU power lead toward the battery and connect black to negative and red to positive. Keep the in-line fuse holder in the circuit, and connect power directly to the battery when possible. If you must take power from a terminal block or another distribution point, make sure the circuit is protected with a 40 A fuse.

Electrical and system integration

The ECU is powered from 12 to 24 Vdc, separate from the NMEA 2000 network power used by the autopilot control side of the system. If the ECU power cable needs to be extended, use the appropriate wire gauge for the total run length so the pump and control electronics see stable voltage under load. Extension guidance is 10 AWG (5.26 mm2) up to 15 ft (4.6 m), 8 AWG (8.36 mm2) up to 23 ft (7 m), and 6 AWG (13.29 mm2) up to 36 ft (11 m).

Use cases on board

This ECU is a good match for hydraulically steered boats already using a GHP Compact Reactor hydraulic autopilot where the original ECU needs replacement, or where an autopilot refit requires restoring the control link between the CCU and the hydraulic pump. It is also a practical choice for installs where the pump and ECU can be kept together in a dry compartment to simplify wiring and service access.

Safety notes

An autopilot helps with steering but does not replace safe watchkeeping. Always stay ready to take manual control, especially near traffic, docks, pilings, or other hazards.