Overview

The Simrad Tillerpilot is a tiller autopilot for tiller-steered sailboats, powered from a 12 V DC supply (10-16 V). It uses a built-in fluxgate compass to steer a steady heading, with a typical current draw of 60 mA in Standby and 500 mA in Auto.

This range is offered in three sizes for boats up to 32 ft, 34 ft, or 37 ft. All versions use a 250 mm (10 in) operating stroke, so you can plan cockpit clearance and mounting geometry around a consistent ram travel.

Controls stay straightforward on board with a five-key keypad, course adjust keys, and a dedicated TACK function for sailing maneuvers. TP22 and TP32 add SimNet networking plus a built-in NMEA 0183 interface for Nav mode and Steer To Wind when connected to compatible instruments.

Key features

• 12 V DC operation with a 10-16 V supply range
• Typical current draw: 60 mA (Standby) and 500 mA (Auto)
• 250 mm (10 in) operating stroke for consistent tiller travel planning
• Overall dimensions at mid-stroke: 610 mm (24 in) long, 105 mm (4 in) wide, 60 mm (2.3 in) high
• Five-key control layout with course adjust keys and a dedicated TACK function
• Starboard mounting as default, with configuration support for port-side mounting
• TP22 and TP32 support SimNet networking and an NMEA 0183 interface (4800 baud) for Nav mode and Steer To Wind with compatible data sources
• Ambient temperature range: -10 C to +55 C (14 F to 131 F)

Variants

This Tillerpilot range is offered in multiple configurations to match boat size and the level of system integration you want at the helm.

Across the range, you get 12 V DC operation and a 250 mm (10 in) stroke. Differences include the recommended boat length, peak thrust, drive mechanism, and whether SimNet and NMEA 0183 interfacing is available.

• TP10 (Size 32 ft). Screw-thread drive with 65 kg (143 lb) peak thrust for tiller-steered boats in the smaller end of the range.
• TP22 (Size 34 ft). Screw-thread drive with 70 kg (154 lb) peak thrust, plus SimNet and built-in NMEA 0183 for Nav mode and Steer To Wind when connected to compatible instruments.
• TP32 (Size 37 ft). Recirculating ballscrew drive with 85 kg (187 lb) peak thrust, with SimNet and built-in NMEA 0183 for Nav mode and Steer To Wind integration.

Installation and setup

Tillerpilots are typically installed between the tiller and a fixed cockpit surface using a tiller pin on the tiller and a mounting cup on the cockpit seat or coaming. A common fit uses a 6.3 mm (0.25 in) hole for the tiller pin and a 12.7 mm (0.5 in) hole for the mounting cup, with the mounting area reinforced so it can handle steering loads.

Plan the mounting so the ram can move through its full 250 mm (10 in) stroke without binding, and so the unit sits in a position that keeps side-loads low as the tiller swings. If cockpit geometry needs it, mounting brackets and pushrod extensions are available to adjust height and alignment.

Electrical and system integration

The unit runs on 12 V DC and should be fed from the vessel switch panel through a 10 A fuse or breaker. Cable sizing depends on the run length; typical guidance is 16 AWG for runs under 4 m (13 ft) and 14 AWG for runs from 4 to 8 m (27 ft).

On TP22 and TP32, the waterproof plug and bulkhead socket carry power along with SimNet and NMEA data. Mount the socket on a vertical surface so water does not pool around it, and keep the protective cap on when the pilot is unplugged. When interfacing with SimNet or NMEA equipment, keep the pilot and connected instruments on the same battery bank to avoid voltage drop issues.

Use on board

This style of autopilot is a good match for sailors who want steady steering while they handle sail trim, reefing, docking prep, or short-handed passages in coastal conditions. It also helps on long tacks where holding a consistent heading makes it easier to keep sails balanced and the boat moving efficiently.

As with any cockpit autopilot, it is an aid to steering, not a replacement for keeping watch. Best results come when the boat is trimmed and balanced so the pilot is making small corrections instead of fighting weather helm.

Maintenance and care

Rinse off salt and grime after heavy spray or washdowns, and keep electrical connections clean and dry. Periodically inspect the tiller pin and mounting cup for wear, and check wiring and connectors for corrosion, especially in open cockpit installations.