Raymarine EV-400 Power Pilot Autopilot Kit, Requires Type 2/3 Hydraulic Drive, p70Rs, ACU-400

Overview

The Raymarine T70162 is an EV-400 Power Pilot autopilot pack for large powerboats with hydraulic steering. It brings together the EV-1 sensor core, p70Rs rotary control head, ACU-400 actuator control unit, rotary rudder feedback unit, and Evolution cabling kit, leaving the hydraulic drive unit to be matched separately to the vessel.

This system is built around Raymarine Evolution steering technology for below-deck pilot installations where steady course keeping matters during coastal cruising, longer offshore runs, or fishing runs that require hands-off helm control for extended periods. The ACU-400 supports 12 V and 24 V DC systems, with an operating voltage range of 10.8 V DC to 31.2 V DC and a maximum continuous drive current output of 30 A at supply voltage.

SeaTalkng and NMEA 2000 networking help the pilot share heading and control data with compatible instruments and chartplotters. The EV-1 sensor core tracks vessel motion with a 9-axis sensor package, while the p70Rs control head gives powerboat helms a rotary knob and push-button interface for course changes and pilot control.

Key features

• EV-400 autopilot pack for large powerboats with hydraulic steering systems.
• Requires a separate Type 2 or Type 3 hydraulic autopilot drive unit to complete the installation.
• ACU-400 actuator control unit supports 12 V and 24 V DC vessel electrical systems.
• 30 A maximum continuous drive current output at supply voltage for demanding below-deck pilot installations.
• EV-1 sensor core uses a 9-axis sensor package to monitor heading, pitch, roll, and yaw.
• SeaTalkng and NMEA 2000 networking support integration with compatible marine instruments and chartplotters.
• Rotary rudder feedback unit is included for steering position feedback in the autopilot system.
• p70Rs color control head uses a rotary control knob suited to powerboat helm stations.

Compatibility and fit

This pack is meant for vessels that already have, or will be fitted with, a compatible hydraulic autopilot drive. The drive unit is not included, so the steering system, vessel displacement, hydraulic ram or pump requirements, and available mounting space should be checked before installation.

The ACU-400 is suited to below-deck mounting and has a drip-resistant rating. Its listed dimensions are 285 mm wide, 211.5 mm high, and 64.5 mm deep, which helps when planning the electronics location near the steering drive, power feed, and SeaTalkng backbone.

Electrical and network integration

The ACU-400 runs from a nominal 12 V or 24 V DC supply and can also supply power to the SeaTalkng bus at 3 A at 12 V with fuse protection. Standby draw is listed at 300 mA on the main power supply and 20 mA from the SeaTalkng bus.

For a clean installation, the autopilot should be integrated into a properly terminated SeaTalkng or NMEA 2000 network, with suitable circuit protection and cable routing away from excessive heat, sharp edges, and high-current noise sources. This helps the pilot communicate cleanly with compatible displays, sensors, and chartplotters at the helm.

Installation and setup

The EV-1 sensor core gives the system heading and motion data, so its mounting location matters. It should be placed where it is protected from magnetic interference and excessive vibration, while still fitting the vessel layout and cable path.

The p70Rs control head belongs at the helm where the operator can see and reach it easily. The included rotary rudder feedback unit connects the pilot system to steering position feedback, which is important for smooth course corrections on larger hydraulic steering systems.

What’s included

• p70Rs color rotary autopilot controller
• EV-1 sensor core
• ACU-400 actuator control unit
• Rotary rudder feedback unit
• Evolution cabling kit