Overview

The Garmin 010-11054-00 is a Shadow Drive sensor that disengages a compatible Garmin hydraulic autopilot as soon as you manually turn the helm. It plumbs into the hydraulic steering line and uses 1/4 in. female NPT ports, so it can be integrated into many common steering circuits with the correct thread adapters.

On the water, it’s a straightforward safety and control add-on: with the autopilot engaged, you can take the wheel without hunting for a standby button. Once you stop steering and settle on a steady heading again, the autopilot can reengage.

Key features

• Manual override behavior: turning the helm disengages the autopilot so you can steer immediately
• Installs inline in hydraulic steering lines where helm movement is sensed through the steering circuit
• 1/4 in. female NPT ports for plumbing into the hydraulic system
• Supports Garmin autopilot systems that use the Shadow Drive sensor, including GHP 10, GHP 12, and GHP 20 hydraulic autopilots
• Reengages when a steady, straight course is re-established

Compatibility and fit

This sensor is intended for boats with hydraulic steering and a compatible Garmin autopilot setup that supports Shadow Drive. Confirm your autopilot model family and that your steering circuit can accept an inline sensor connection.

Because hydraulic systems vary by helm, hose, and fitting standards, check the thread type at the install point. The sensor body uses 1/4 in. female NPT, so boats using ORB, metric, or compression-style connections typically need the appropriate adapters selected for the exact steering hardware on board.

Installation and setup

Plan the install location so the unit can be mounted securely and so the hydraulic lines can be routed without chafe, tight bends, or vibration points. Any time the steering circuit is opened, treat the job like hydraulic service: keep everything clean, torque fittings correctly, and bleed the steering system fully to remove air.

After installation, verify operation at the dock: engage the autopilot, apply a deliberate helm input, confirm the autopilot disengages as expected, then confirm normal autopilot operation returns when you stop steering and re-establish a steady heading.

Use cases on board

This is a good match for boats that run long transits under autopilot and still want instant hands-on control during traffic situations, docking approaches, or unexpected course changes. It also fits crews who alternate between helmsman steering and autopilot steering and want the transition to feel natural at the wheel.

Maintenance and care

Periodically inspect the hydraulic fittings and nearby hose runs for seepage, salt buildup, and chafe. If you service the steering system later, recheck for air in the lines and confirm the Shadow Drive disengage behavior during your post-service sea trial.