power steering pump - keep or replace w new autopilot system

[sndog]

Hello again.

Currently, I have a Roberston ap300 autopilot controller coupled to a Robertson constant on, solenoid drive pump (attached photos are reference of the pump).

This links to a hydraulic ram(the photo is of the actual unit on my boat). This hydraulic ram connects to a post on one of my rudders, then there is a link bar to the other rudder.

The autopilot controller is being replaced to a new unit.

So my questions are as follows:

1. Will this pump work with new autopilot systems?

2. If not, how do I pick a new pump?

3. Is there any way to make this pump work with a controller, as I would like to save the money, and the hassle, of replacing it.

The pump has less than 10 hrs of use on it, and I would have the stators and the bearings replaced. I am trying to avoid opening the hydraulic system, as bleeding it would be much less than fun.

The hydraulic ram is around 1" for the piston rod, and a stroke length of around 18~24"

Hydraulic lines are 0.75~1" O.D.

 

[Taras]

I just did this project on my current 66' Cheoy Lee. I too, had the Robertson AP300X. Worked great for the first 30 years, but was time to replace. I went with the Simrad AP44 High Capacity auto pilot due to the size and tonnage of my vessel and the size and amperage of my pump. Not sure how big your vessel is and how may amps your hydraulic pump draws but those are critical in your purchase decision. You can call Simrad support directly and they have a super tech team that can tell you exactly what you need and if your current pump will work or not. Below is a link to what I purchased... Lastly, I had to install a NMEA 2000 backbone starter kit to power the system as my vessel is NMEA0183. Not hard to do, you can YouTube it. I'm very happy with my new system....works really well.
https://www.ebay.com/itm/3135849631...ra55srAp5i0XoiTHMIWLmW1+AC|tkp:Bk9SR_aT2-vIYQ

 

[sean9c]

My guess would be is that you can find an autopilot that will work with your existing pump. All you're asking it to do is actuate your existing solenoids. If it was me I'd look online for the install manual of the a/p that I'm interested in and see if they have wiring diagrams for actuating solenoids.
If you are thinking about replacing your pump, pumps are sized by the amount of fluid that they move over a given period of time. In the case of a/p's you're looking at the helm moving from hard over to hard over in approximately 10 seconds. So you'll need to know the fluid volume of your cylinder or in your case both cylinders. Do the math and you'll come up with a pump size. If your pump works and you're happy with it I'd try to keep it.
Again, if it was me, I think that I'd just contact Comnav and tell them what I have and what I want to do. They'll likely be familiar with your equipment and can advise you.

 

[twistedtree]

I would definitely keep the pump. Most all APs can operate a solenoid controlled pump. Just confirm before before finalizing your pick.

 

[KnotYet]

If you end up needing to crack the hydraulic system, fear not. Most boatowners
have done that and had no issues. It's also good to change the oil at that time.

 

[sndog]

I just did this project on my current 66' Cheoy Lee. I too, had the Robertson AP300X. Worked great for the first 30 years, but was time to replace. I went with the Simrad AP44 High Capacity auto pilot due to the size and tonnage of my vessel and the size and amperage of my pump. Not sure how big your vessel is and how may amps your hydraulic pump draws but those are critical in your purchase decision. You can call Simrad support directly and they have a super tech team that can tell you exactly what you need and if your current pump will work or not. Below is a link to what I purchased... Lastly, I had to install a NMEA 2000 backbone starter kit to power the system as my vessel is NMEA0183. Not hard to do, you can YouTube it. I'm very happy with my new system....works really well.
https://www.ebay.com/itm/3135849631...ra55srAp5i0XoiTHMIWLmW1+AC|tkp:Bk9SR_aT2-vIYQ

Thank you.

There is a complete N2K backbone being installed. The size of my boat will be 70' with the swim platform included in that. About 60tons of weight empty.

Amperage I will have to check.

Is it possible to use a simrad autopilot with other manufacturers MFDs?

I will have Raymarine MFD's as well as timezero professional.

 

[sndog]

The pump is a Robertson RPU-3 1500 24vdc, p/n 21399035

 

[Portage_Bay]

With 70 ft and 60 tons I'd recommend keeping the existing pump. As others have said just make sure the AP can drive solenoids. Most can. If you want to take some of the electrical load off the AP install relays between the AP and solenoids. A very reliable setup and a pair of spare relays are easy to carry.

 

[twistedtree]

Thank you.

There is a complete N2K backbone being installed. The size of my boat will be 70' with the swim platform included in that. About 60tons of weight empty.

Amperage I will have to check.

Is it possible to use a simrad autopilot with other manufacturers MFDs?

I will have Raymarine MFD's as well as timezero professional.

Yes for Auto and Nav modes. And you will need a Simrad control panel.


What you can't do is use a non-simrad MFD etc. as another AP control panel. Switching between Standby, Auto, Nav, etc will all be done through the dedicated AP con trol panel. But it will steer fine, can follow routes, etc.