Overview

The Garmin 010-11053-30 is an electronic control unit (ECU) for the GHP 12 autopilot system. It connects between the course computer unit (CCU) and the steering drive unit, controls the drive unit based on heading data from the CCU, and powers both the CCU and the drive unit from a 12-24 Vdc boat battery.

This ECU is used as the control box at the drive end of the autopilot installation, with dedicated, keyed connectors for the drive (DRIVE) and rudder feedback (FEEDBACK). It is also used with GHP Reactor Mechanical/Retrofit/Solenoid corepacks, so it can serve as a replacement ECU when restoring a compatible Garmin autopilot system.

For fit on board, plan to mount it on a flat surface in any orientation and keep it in a location that stays dry and protected from direct washdowns. It must be located within 19 in. (0.5 m) of the drive unit, so it typically ends up in an engine room, steering compartment, or near the hydraulic pump or steering actuator.

Key features

• Runs the steering drive based on CCU input and supplies power to both the CCU and the drive unit
• Connects to a 12-24 Vdc battery source for common 12V and 24V onboard electrical systems
• Keyed, color-coded DRIVE and FEEDBACK connectors help prevent cross-connection during installation or service
• Mounts on a flat surface in any orientation, making it easier to fit in tight steering or machinery spaces
• Mounting requirement: ECU must be installed within 19 in. (0.5 m) of the drive unit to keep high-current drive wiring short
• Battery connection can be made directly, and when connected through a terminal block or other source it should be protected with a 40 A fuse
• Compatible with GHP 12 Autopilot System and GHP Reactor Mechanical/Retrofit/Solenoid corepacks

Compatibility and fit

This ECU is one part of a complete autopilot system and is meant to be paired with the matching Garmin CCU and control head for the system you are servicing. It interfaces directly with the steering drive and rudder feedback wiring, so the drive type and feedback arrangement on your boat should match the rest of your autopilot components.

Installation and wiring

Mount the ECU close to the drive unit, route the drive and feedback cables to the clearly labeled connectors, and keep all wiring supported so it does not chafe from vibration. The ECU power leads run back to the battery; if the battery run needs to be extended, wire gauge should match the added length (12 AWG up to 10 ft. (3 m), 10 AWG for 15-20 ft. (4.5-6 m), and 8 AWG up to 25 ft. (7.5 m)).

This component is a good match for boaters replacing a failed ECU in a GHP 12 or compatible Reactor mechanical or solenoid corepack, especially when the installation needs 12-24 Vdc support and the drive unit location allows the ECU to be mounted within 0.5 m.