Tiller Pilot problems and recommendations

[JakeJ]

Looking for recommendations for a good autopilot system for my boat.
I have a Bodega 30 (aka Farallon 29, Golden Gate 30) - long keel around 8000lbs (tiller steering). I have been prepping my boat for the last year in hope of completing the 2018 SHTP. Boat originally came with an ST2000+, which was a bit underpowered for my boat in any kind of chop. So based on the recommendations here, I ordered a Pelagic autopilot complete system in April. The Pelagic has, unfortunately, been nothing but a problem - faulty boards (replaced) and now the actuator appears to have stopped working. This was during a calm daysail in 10-12kts winds on a beam reach. Despite the glowing reviews, and Brians excellent customer service sending me replacement parts, I don't have much confidence in taking this system offshore - In fact, I have since installing it in May only had it work twice during daysails. Looking for opinions on the EV-100, or anything comparable. How about the Simrad TP32? Others? Not interested in installing a belowdeck system at this time, due to boat configuration and cost. Had good luck for years with the ST2000+ on my 24' boat - just too small for this one. Thanks!

 

[solosailor]

EV100 is great and you can still use your Pelagic drive so you will already have two. FYI, A single electric autopilot is not enough for a SHTP. I had 4 but two were smaller tiller units and two had interchangeable drives. I'd get the EVO and keep working to gain confidence in the Pelagic so you have two brains also.

 

[JakeJ]

Thanks for the reply. Met with Brian and am going to give the Pelagic one more try - I know so many others have had good luck with it.
The Pelagic is actually my backup - I use a wind vane for most of my self steering.

 

[AlanH]

Redundancy is good. Three ways to do most everything vital on the boat is excellent iMHO..