Autopilot for Sailboats with Inboard Engines

Why the inboard engine affects autopilot choice

An inboard engine on a sailboat usually means a larger, heavier vessel with a steering system that is either hydraulic or mechanical. The autopilot's drive unit is the part that connects to that steering system to move the rudder, so the drive must be compatible with the steering type and capable of handling the boat's size and weight. For a deeper look at drive types, see our guide on autopilot drive types.

Raymarine's autopilot packs are described by the steering system they suit: for example, the EV-200 Sail Pilot is for mid-sized sailboats with mechanical steering, while the EV-400 Sail Pilot is for large sailboats with mechanical steering. Hydraulic steering is served by power pilot packs like the EV-200 Power Pilot for medium to large powerboats, but the same hydraulic pumps can be used on sailboats with hydraulic steering. You can compare complete packs in our best complete autopilot packs guide.

The inboard engine itself does not directly drive the autopilot, but it influences the boat's displacement and the steering system installed. Heavier boats need drives with more capacity, which is why the maker's page lists displacement limits for each drive unit, such as the Type 1 Linear Drive for boats up to 11,000 kg (24,000 lbs).

Hydraulic steering: pump drives

Many sailboats with inboard engines have hydraulic steering, where a hydraulic pump moves fluid to turn the rudder. For these boats, the autopilot drive is a hydraulic pump that connects to the steering system. Raymarine offers hydraulic pumps in several sizes, such as the Type 1 Hydraulic Pump for steering systems with 80-230cc (4.9 - 14.0 in3) and the Type 2 for 230 - 350cc (14 - 21 in3). For more on hydraulic systems, see our hydraulic autopilot guide.

When you see a listing for a complete autopilot pack with a hydraulic pump, the pump is sized for a range of steering volumes. The pack title often names the pump type, like 'Type 1 Hydraulic Pump,' so you can match it to your boat's steering system. If the listing does not state the pump size, you may need to ask the seller or check the maker's page.

Hydraulic pumps are also used on powerboats, but on a sailboat with an inboard engine, the pump must handle the rudder loads typical of a sailing vessel. The same pump types are listed for both sail and power, so the key is matching the steering volume and the boat's displacement.

Mechanical steering: linear and rotary drives

Sailboats with inboard engines often use mechanical steering, where a cable or rod connects the wheel to the rudder. For these boats, the autopilot drive is a linear drive or a rotary drive. A linear drive pushes and pulls a rod attached to the steering linkage, while a rotary drive turns a gear or belt connected to the wheel or rudder shaft. Learn more about the differences in our rotary vs linear drive guide.

Raymarine lists the Type 1 Linear Drive for boats up to 11,000 kg (24,000 lbs) and the Type 2 Rotary Drive for vessels up to 20,000 kg (44,000 lbs). These drives are mechanical and suit sailboats with wheel steering. The EV-200 Sail Pilot and EV-400 Sail Pilot packs are examples of complete packs that include a mechanical drive for sailboats. See our best sailboat autopilots guide for more options.

When choosing a mechanical drive, you need to know your boat's displacement and the steering system type. The maker's page states the displacement limits for each drive, so you can compare that to your boat's weight. If you are unsure, a dealer can help you identify the steering system and recommend the right drive.

Complete packs vs. core packs for inboard sailboats

A complete autopilot pack includes the drive unit, control head, and sensors, while a core pack includes the drive and sensors but no control head. For a sailboat with an inboard engine, a complete pack is convenient because it has everything you need, but a core pack lets you keep an existing control head or use a chartplotter as the interface. Compare the two in our core pack vs complete pack guide.

On this site, you can filter listings by whether the drive is in the box and whether the control head is in the box. This helps you compare complete packs and core packs side by side. For example, a complete pack like the EV-200 Sail Pilot includes the drive and control head, while a core pack might include only the drive and sensor. Our best autopilot core packs guide can help you find the right core pack.

If you already have a compatible control head, a core pack can save money, but you must ensure the drive matches your steering system. The maker's page or a dealer can confirm compatibility. For a first-time installation, a complete pack is often simpler because all parts are included and matched.

Sensors and network connections

An autopilot needs a heading sensor to know the boat's direction. Raymarine's Evolution autopilots use an EV sensor that includes a 3D heading sensor and the central processor. This sensor is part of the pack, so you do not need to buy it separately unless you are building a custom system. For more on sensors, see our autopilot sensor requirements guide.

The autopilot can connect to other marine electronics via NMEA 2000, a standard for interconnecting marine devices. According to the NMEA, NMEA 2000 is a CAN-based network that allows equipment to share data, including commands and status. This means your autopilot can receive heading data from a compatible GPS or chartplotter, but the maker's page or a dealer should confirm compatibility. Learn more in our NMEA 2000 connectivity guide.

For a sailboat with an inboard engine, the sensor must be mounted away from magnetic interference, such as the engine and electrical cables. The maker's manual will specify mounting requirements. The autopilot's network connection allows integration with wind instruments and chartplotters, which is useful for sailing, but the exact features depend on the model.

What to check before buying

Before choosing an autopilot for a sailboat with an inboard engine, identify your steering system: hydraulic or mechanical. Look at the steering ram or hoses for hydraulic, or a cable and pulley system for mechanical. If you are unsure, consult the boat's manual or a dealer. Our steering system check guide can help.

Check the boat's displacement, as the drive unit's capacity is based on weight. Raymarine lists displacement limits for each drive, such as the Type 1 Rotary Drive for vessels up to 11,000 kg (24,000 lbs). Match this to your boat's weight to avoid undersizing. For more on sizing, see our drive sizing guide.

Decide whether you want a complete pack or a core pack. If you have a control head already, a core pack may suffice. Otherwise, a complete pack includes everything. Also, consider the control head type: pushbutton or rotary knob, and whether you want a remote control. Our control head options guide can help you choose.

Ask the seller about the pack contents: does it include the drive, control head, and sensor? Is the drive suitable for your steering system? The listing may not state all details, so you may need to contact the seller or check the maker's page.

Installation and support

Installing an autopilot involves connecting the drive to the steering system, mounting the sensor, and wiring the network. This is a job for a qualified installer or a dealer, as the maker's manual provides specific instructions. The site does not offer installation guidance; instead, consult the manual or a professional.

The U.S. Coast Guard Boating Safety page emphasizes the importance of boating education and safety. An autopilot does not replace a lookout, so always maintain a proper watch. The site cannot make safety claims, but you should follow the maker's recommendations and local regulations.

Warranty and support vary by manufacturer. Check the listing for warranty information, and register your purchase with the maker. Keep receipts and part numbers for future reference. If you have questions about compatibility or installation, contact the maker or a dealer.

What to pick for your situation

Questions

Do I need a special autopilot for an inboard engine?

No, but the drive must match your steering system and boat size. Inboard engines often mean hydraulic or mechanical steering, so choose a hydraulic pump or linear/rotary drive accordingly.

Can I use a powerboat autopilot on a sailboat with an inboard?

Some autopilots are designed for both, but you must ensure the drive is suitable for your steering type and displacement. Check the maker's page for the drive's intended application.

What is the difference between a complete pack and a core pack?

A complete pack includes the drive, control head, and sensor. A core pack includes the drive and sensor but no control head, so you need a compatible head or chartplotter.

How do I know if my steering is hydraulic or mechanical?

Look for hydraulic hoses and a fluid reservoir, or a cable and pulley system. If unsure, consult your boat's manual or ask a dealer.

Can I install the autopilot myself?

Installation should be done by a qualified installer or dealer, following the maker's manual. The site does not provide installation instructions.