Autopilot for Outboard Motors: Bracket or Pump

Outboard steering options for autopilots

Outboard boats steer in two main ways: mechanical cable steering and hydraulic steering. Each type connects to an autopilot differently. A linear drive can attach to the tilt tube on cable-steered boats, while a hydraulic pump is added to boats with hydraulic steering. The drive unit is the part that interfaces with your vessel's steering system, as Raymarine explains on its autopilot drive units page.

Your first step is to identify which steering system your boat has. If you are unsure, consult an authorized dealer or the boat's manual. The maker's page for drive units says to ask a dealer if you cannot determine the steering type. This decision determines whether you look for a tilt tube bracket drive or a hydraulic pump.

• Cable steering: a linear drive with a tilt tube bracket
• Hydraulic steering: a hydraulic pump added to the system
• Steer-by-wire: a separate category for electronic helm systems

Tilt tube linear drives for cable steering

A tilt tube linear drive is a mechanical drive that mounts on the tilt tube of an outboard. The tilt tube is the horizontal tube that the outboard pivots on when you steer. The drive pushes and pulls a rod connected to the steering arm, turning the engine. This type of drive is common for outboards with mechanical cable steering.

Raymarine lists a Type 1 Linear Drive Unit for boats up to 11,000 kg (24,000 lbs) displacement. This is an example of a linear drive that can be used on outboard installations. The drive is electric and connects to the steering system, but the exact mounting method depends on the boat and the maker's instructions.

When you see a listing for a linear drive, check whether it includes the bracket for tilt tube mounting. Some drives are sold as the drive unit only, while others come with the mounting hardware. The listing should state what is included. For more on drive types, see our guide to autopilot drive types.

Hydraulic pumps for hydraulic steering

If your outboard has hydraulic steering, the autopilot uses a hydraulic pump to move fluid and turn the engine. The pump connects to the existing hydraulic lines, replacing or supplementing the helm pump. Raymarine offers Type 0.5, Type 1, Type 2, and Type 3 hydraulic pumps for different steering system volumes, from 50 to 500 cc.

The pump size must match your steering system's fluid volume. Raymarine's drive unit page lists the steering system volume ranges for each pump type. For example, the Type 1 Hydraulic Pump is for systems with 80 to 230 cc. Choosing the right pump is essential for proper operation, but the maker's page is the source for these numbers.

Some autopilot packs include the pump, while others are sold as core packs without a drive. If you already have a hydraulic pump from a previous autopilot, you might only need a core pack. Otherwise, look for a complete pack that includes the pump. Compare complete autopilot packs and core packs to see what is included.

Outboard-specific autopilot packs

Some autopilot packs are designed specifically for outboard boats. Furuno offers the NavPilot 711C/OB, which is described as a self-learning, adaptive autopilot for outboards. This model uses Furuno's Fantum Feedback technology, which eliminates the need for a physical rudder feedback unit on outboard installations. The NavPilot 300 also supports outboard installations with Fantum Feedback.

These packs often include the control head, course computer, and sometimes the drive or pump. The listing will state whether a drive is included. For example, the NavPilot 300 is sold with or without a pump, depending on the version. The NavPilot 300/PG includes a pump, while the base NavPilot 300 does not.

When comparing outboard-specific packs, check the steering type they support. Some are for hydraulic steering only, while others may work with mechanical steering via a linear drive. The maker's page is the authority on what each pack includes. See our Furuno autopilot guide for more on these models.

Choosing between a bracket drive and a pump

The choice between a tilt tube linear drive and a hydraulic pump is dictated by your boat's steering. If you have cable steering, you need a linear drive with a tilt tube bracket. If you have hydraulic steering, you need a hydraulic pump. There is no overlap; the drive must match the steering system.

For cable-steered outboards, a linear drive is the only practical option. For hydraulic steering, a pump is required. Some boats with hydraulic steering can also use a linear drive if the steering system is modified, but that is not a standard approach. Stick with the drive type that matches your steering.

Consider whether you want a complete pack or a core pack. A complete pack includes the drive, while a core pack does not. If you are replacing an existing autopilot and keeping the drive, a core pack may be sufficient. If you are adding autopilot for the first time, you likely need a complete pack. For more on this decision, read complete pack vs core pack.

Questions to ask before buying

Before you order an autopilot for your outboard, ask these questions:

What type of steering does my boat have? If you are not sure, check the manual or ask a dealer. What drive unit is included in the pack? Does it match my steering system? Is the drive a linear drive for tilt tube mounting or a hydraulic pump? Does the pack include the control head and sensor, or are those sold separately?

Also ask about the rudder reference. Some autopilots require a rudder feedback unit, while others like Furuno's Fantum Feedback do not. The listing or the maker's page will state this. Finally, ask about installation. Who will install the autopilot? A qualified installer should handle the installation, as the maker's manual provides the steps. For more on installation planning, see autopilot installation planning.

What to pick for your situation

Questions

Can I use a linear drive on a hydraulic steering outboard?

No, a linear drive is for cable steering. Hydraulic steering requires a hydraulic pump. The drive must match the steering system.

What is a tilt tube bracket?

It is a mounting bracket that attaches a linear drive to the tilt tube of an outboard, allowing the drive to push and pull the steering arm.

Do I need a rudder feedback unit with an outboard autopilot?

Some autopilots require a rudder reference unit, but Furuno's Fantum Feedback eliminates the need for a physical rudder feedback unit on outboard installations. Check the listing or maker's page.

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

A complete pack includes the drive unit, while a core pack does not. Choose a complete pack for a new installation, or a core pack if you are keeping an existing drive.

Can I install an outboard autopilot myself?

Installation should be done by a qualified installer or according to the maker's manual. The manual covers the steps, but professional installation is often recommended.