New autopilot on 2009 sailboat

[pacman]

The sailing boat is equipped with a E80 Classic MFD, S3G autopilot, ST-70 instruments, Wind vane, Digital Radar, AIS 500, DMS 30 and some other N2K sensors connected to the Seatalk NG network. There is also a Seatalk 1 network connected with the converter.

I am in the need to add a second autopilot for redundancy, going to make blue water sailing in a short time-frame.
The question is: which is the best model to add and what type of compatibility issues would I eventually face?

The current setup works just fine and I would like to keep the external ST-70 autopilot to manage the new autopilot. Which are the drawbacks if any?
Will I be able to setup a course on the E80 and enable the autopilot to follow it?

Thank you in advance for your kind availability

[Chris - Raymarine - Moderator]

Hello pacman,

I would recommend the T70161. This is the EV-400 sail pilot. This pilot will work with your existing drive and the ST70. https://www.raymarine.com/view/index-id=581.html

Chris,

[pacman]

Thank you so much Chris. :)

[pacman]

Sorry Chris, is the M81105 rudder sensor advisable or the EV400 works better without? I don't even know if it is a discontinued product.

Thanks

[Chris - Raymarine - Moderator]

Hi pacman,

The M81105 is current product. Technically the ACU-400 can operate without the M81105. If one is installed on the vessel I would connect it to the ACU-400. A M81105 is included in the box with every ACU-400. I personally prefer to use a M81105 rudder reference unit on autopilots because it gives you a live feedback. That in no way reflects an issue with operating without a M81105. Both options are recommended.

Chris,

[pacman]

Thank you very much Chris,
so even into the T70161 package there is the M81105?
Maybe I have overlooked it into the box content list when followed your advice.

[Chris - Raymarine - Moderator]

Hi Pacman,

it does not show it but yes every ACU-400 has a M81105 in the box with it.

Chris,

[pacman]

Brilliant, thank you so much for your help and availability

[Chris - Raymarine - Moderator]

Your welcome,