Cetrek Autopilot?

[Play'N Hooky Too]

Had a trip planned this past Friday to head out to try some night time sword fishing. Cleared the channel to the marina and went to set my initial heading into the autopilot when I realized that it wouldn't power on. On closer inspection, I noticed that there were droplets of water inside between the LCD and the display screen of the controller. I suspect the sun cover got left off following our last trip and rain must have blown in and gotten to it. We tried taking the housing apart and letting it dry, but I suspect that it probably also froze during the cold weather we've had over the past couple of weeks. Needless to say, it's gone to electronics heaven.

The system is a Cetrek model 930-609 with a Pilot 730 controller (~1998 vintage) that came with the boat when I bought it and worked flawlessly up until this point. So first of all, I was wanting to check to see if someone might have an old compatible controller laying around that they would be willing to part with (most any Cetrek 700 series controller I believe).

Alternatively, I would be looking for some recommendations on a replacement autopilot system. I would prefer one that can function as a stand-alone system. I'm trying to get a few more miles out of my main electronics package (Raymarine) before I have to bite the bullet and upgrade. Since I'm not sure what I will upgrade to when the time comes, I hate to be locked-in to one brand at this point.

As always, thanks for y'alls help.
-Alan

 

[Captain Ralph]

Internet search Cetrek Autopilot . Lots of shops still deal with that equipment.

FYI; 2001 Teleflex took them over;
https://www.yachtingmonthly.com/news/cetrek-rebrands-27594

 

[Play'N Hooky Too]

After checking around, I have come to the conclusion that my best bet would just to go ahead and get a new autopilot system. I see that Garmin offers a package that can be used for retrofitting an existing system and that is the direction I'm leaning.

https://www.hodgesmarine.com/gar010-00705-49-garmin-reactortrade-40-mechanicalretrofitsol.html

These are a couple of pictures of my current autopilot steering pump. I'm hoping that I might be able to use it as part of the new system. Problem is I can't make out the model number or any of the details on the old sticker. Anybody recognize this pump model or have any idea how I might get some info on it. I've called myself looking through all of the old paperwork and manuals that were with the boat when I bought it, but I can't find any information there either.

Thanks
-Alan

 

[Play'N Hooky Too]

I can't find the model # on the Hynautic steering ram either, but based on the dimensions, it would appear to be about 0.5 liter.

 

[cww]

There is no need to spend $10k on a new autopilot, there are a bunch of shops in Lauderdale who fix that stuff, and you can very likely buy a replacement control head if you try looking on eBay.

 

[cww]

Here, the original company is still in business and will rebuild the unit for $250.http://www.benmarmarine.com/Service.htm

 

[Boatsb]

There is no need to spend $10k on a new autopilot, there are a bunch of shops in Lauderdale who fix that stuff, and you can very likely buy a replacement control head if you try looking on eBay.

I want to sell you stuff. I have an autopilot for $10k and will give you a 50% discount.

Real world

Full blown system with smartpump $4099.99 MRP.
System to use existing pump $2049.99.

Add a rudder feedback and a few cables as needed. Maybe another $300.00

But I like the $10k.