Simrad RF25 Rudder Feedback Sensor, SimNet, NMEA 2000, +/-120 Deg

Overview

The Simrad 22014286 is a rotary rudder feedback unit that puts live rudder angle onto a SimNet network so an autopilot steering computer and compatible displays can see exactly where the rudder is. It measures up to ±120° of travel and reports with ±0.25° accuracy within ±5° of center and ±0.5° across the rest of the range, which helps keep steering corrections smooth when the boat is getting pushed around by wind and sea.

It runs from the SimNet backbone at 8 to 16 V, draws about 0.4 W, and outputs rudder angle on SimNet/NMEA 2000 PGN 127245. The housing is rated IP56 and the unit can be mounted horizontal, vertical, or upside down, which makes it easier to fit into a tight lazarette or steering compartment. It continues transmitting rudder angle even when the autopilot is switched off, so you can still have a rudder angle readout available.

Key features

• SimNet interface and SimNet/NMEA 2000 rudder angle output on PGN 127245
• ±120° measurement range for full rudder travel on many steering setups
• Accuracy of ±0.25° within ±5° of center and ±0.5° outside that zone, with ±0.1° repeatability
• Backbone powered (8 to 16 V) with about 0.4 W draw and SimNet network load factor (NL) of 1
• IP56 environmental protection for typical steering compartments and occasional washdown exposure
• Mounting orientation options: horizontal, vertical, or upside down
• Safe distance to compass: 1.0 m

Installation and setup

The unit mounts close to the rudder and connects mechanically to a rudder tiller arm or rudder quadrant. Place it so the center of the feedback unit lines up with the center of the rudder post, then set the rudder near center and align the transmitter lever to its center mark before linking everything together. Skipping the alignment marks can lead to a rudder feedback alarm later.

Once mounted, cycle the helm from hard over to hard over and watch the linkage move through the full travel without binding. The linkage is intended to be set up as a 1:1 relationship between rudder movement and the transmitter lever; in tight spaces, the transmitter rod can be trimmed to bring the unit closer to the rudder post.

Compatibility and fit

This is a good match for boats that already have a SimNet backbone and need rudder angle feedback for an autopilot, or for refits where rudder position is being added to support more accurate steering control. It is commonly installed in the steering compartment on inboard powerboats and sailboats where a tiller arm or quadrant is accessible and there is a solid platform to mount the sensor.

Electrical and system integration

Connection is through a single SimNet port, using a T-joiner and drop to the SimNet backbone. Because it is a network device, plan your backbone power and cabling like any other SimNet/NMEA 2000 sensor, and keep the sensor location within reach of the backbone run so the cable can be routed cleanly and protected from chafe.

Maintenance and care

Check the mechanical linkage periodically for play, loose fasteners, or stiff ball joints, especially after a season of vibration and salt exposure. Keep the unit out of standing bilge water and avoid mounting where it will take direct spray; IP56 handles typical damp compartments, but it is not meant to be submerged.

What’s included

• RF25 rudder feedback unit with SimNet cable and connector
• Stainless 345 mm transmitter link with two ball joints
• Mounting screws

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