Raymarine Type 1 Rotary Autopilot Drive, 12V, For Chain Steering

Overview

The Raymarine M81135 is a Type 1 rotary autopilot drive for 12V DC steering systems that use a chain and sprocket from the helm. It is built for mechanically steered powerboats and sailboats where the existing cable or rod steering can be driven through that chain-and-sprocket arrangement.

This drive suits vessels up to 11,000 kg or 24,000 lb displacement and works with the Raymarine ACU-200 actuator control unit. Its rotary mechanism uses an electric motor, epicyclic gearbox, drive belt, and electromagnetic clutch to turn the steering system under autopilot control while allowing normal hand steering when the clutch is disengaged.

For installation, the steering layout needs enough space near the chain run, and the correct sprockets, chain hardware, and mounting fasteners must be matched to the boat. In many installations, the steering chain may need modification so the drive can engage cleanly without adding unwanted friction at the helm.

Key features

• Type 1 rotary autopilot drive for chain-and-sprocket mechanical steering systems.
• 12V DC configuration for vessels with a 12-volt onboard power system.
• Rated for boats up to 11,000 kg or 24,000 lb displacement.
• Works with the Raymarine ACU-200 actuator control unit.
• Electric motor drives an epicyclic gearbox through a high tensile drive belt.
• Electromagnetic clutch lets the drive engage for autopilot steering and disengage for hand steering.
• Well suited to cable and rod steering systems that can be driven from the helm position.
• Optional drive sprockets and steering-chain changes may be required for a correct fit.

Installation and setup

The M81135 installs below deck or in another protected steering area where it can connect mechanically to the boat’s steering chain. The drive must be mounted securely so steering loads transfer through the drive and chain without flexing the mounting surface or pulling the sprockets out of alignment.

Before ordering, the steering system should be checked for displacement rating, 12V compatibility, available mounting space, and chain access. The sprocket size and chain path matter because they affect how the rotary drive turns the helm system and how freely the steering feels when the autopilot is not engaged.

Compatibility and fit

This unit is for mechanical steering systems that can be driven by a chain and sprocket. It is not a hydraulic pump, linear ram, or wheel-mounted cockpit pilot. Boats with hydraulic steering, stern drive steering, or a steering system that cannot be back-driven need a different Raymarine drive type matched to that steering arrangement.

It is a practical match for cruising sailboats and powerboats that already have a mechanical helm layout and need below-deck autopilot steering with enough authority for longer passages, coastal runs, and regular hands-off course keeping.

Electrical and system integration

The drive is powered and controlled through the autopilot system rather than wired directly to a display. In a typical Raymarine Evolution autopilot setup, the ACU-200 supplies drive control while the sensor core, control head, and compatible chartplotter or instruments handle heading data and user input.

Because this is a steering drive, cable routing, circuit protection, and mechanical installation should be planned together. A clean installation keeps the drive wiring protected from heat, moving steering parts, and moisture while leaving access for inspection and service.

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Returns may be requested within 30 days of receiving your order. Items must be unused, uninstalled, unaltered, and returned in their original packaging with all tags, packing materials, blank warranty cards, manuals, instructions, accessories, and included items. Certain products, including installed or used electronics, electrical components, lighting, consumables, custom or special-order items, cut-to-length products, safety equipment, and merchandise exposed to water or marine conditions, may not be eligible for return.

To request a return, sign in to your account and select the applicable order and items, and submit your request for review. Eligible unfulfilled items may also be submitted for cancellation within 1 hour of placing the order. Returns or cancellations are not considered approved until you receive confirmation from Apollo Lighting. Please do not ship or drop off merchandise before receiving return approval and instructions.

Customers are responsible for arranging and paying for return shipping unless the return is due to an error by Apollo Lighting or the item is verified as defective, damaged, or incorrect. Missing, damaged, defective, or incorrect items must be reported within 2 business days of delivery, and photos or other documentation may be required for review. If the issue is verified, Apollo Lighting may provide or reimburse return shipping and issue a replacement or refund depending on the circumstances. International customers are responsible for return shipping, duties, taxes, customs charges, brokerage fees, and other costs associated with an international return.

After your return is received and inspected, approved refunds are issued to the original payment method and may take 5-7 business days to appear after processing. Original shipping and handling charges are nonrefundable, and the value of any included free items that are not returned may be deducted from the refund. Apollo Lighting does not charge a standard restocking fee on eligible returns. Returns that are incomplete, damaged, installed, used, altered, improperly packaged, or otherwise do not meet the eligibility requirements may be refused. We recommend using a trackable and appropriately insured shipping service for all customer-arranged returns.

For assistance, contact info@apollolighting.com or call +1 (954) 375-0100.

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Many products sold by Apollo Lighting include a manufacturer's warranty covering defects in materials or workmanship. Warranty terms vary by brand, product category, and model, so eligibility, coverage duration, exclusions, and available remedies are determined by the applicable manufacturer. We recommend reviewing the warranty information provided with your product before installation or use, especially for marine electronics, navigation equipment, lighting, electrical systems, pumps, safety equipment, and other specialized marine products.

If you need warranty service, the claim must follow the process established by the manufacturer, authorized service center, or designated warranty provider. You may be asked for proof of purchase, a serial number, product registration, photos, maintenance or installation records, or other documentation. Apollo Lighting does not determine or modify a manufacturer's warranty coverage or final claim decision, but we are happy to help provide purchase information and direct you to the appropriate manufacturer or warranty resource.

Keep your receipt, product documentation, serial number information, and original packaging when practical. Damage caused by normal wear, misuse, improper installation, insufficient maintenance, corrosion, impact, unauthorized modifications, electrical issues, or operation outside the manufacturer's specifications may not be covered. Warranty claims are separate from standard returns, so a product that has been installed, used, or exposed to marine conditions may no longer qualify for return while still remaining eligible for evaluation under the manufacturer's applicable warranty.

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