Navigating larger vessels demands precision and power, especially when mechanical steering meets the open sea’s challenges. The Raymarine Type 3 12V Hydraulic Linear Drive steps in as a robust solution, engineered for boats displacing up to 35,000 kg. This remanufactured unit delivers the torque and reliability skippers trust for seamless autopilot performance, turning long passages into effortless voyages without constant wheel adjustments.
Powerful Performance Tailored for Heavy-Duty Use
Unmatched Thrust: Generates peak thrust of 1,200 kg to confidently handle demanding conditions, ensuring your rudder responds instantly to autopilot commands.
Extended Stroke: 300 mm maximum stroke provides ample rudder travel, ideal for vessels requiring significant turning radius.
Swift Response: Achieves hard-over to hard-over in just 10 seconds, minimizing lag during critical maneuvers.
Torque Mastery: Delivers up to 3,200 Nm of rudder torque, perfect for maintaining course stability in rough waters or high-speed cruising.
Self-Contained Design: Integrates a reversing pump, reservoir, and hydraulic ram—no external hydraulics needed, simplifying setup on bigger boats.
Whether you’re outfitting a displacement hull for coastal cruising or a larger planing vessel for offshore adventures, this drive transforms autopilot integration into a powerhouse of efficiency.
Detailed Specifications at a Glance
Specification
Details
Maximum Boat Displacement
35,000 kg
Peak Thrust
1,200 kg
Maximum Stroke
300 mm
Hard-Over to Hard-Over Times
10 seconds
Maximum Rudder Torque
3,200 Nm
Compatible Corepack
ACU-400
These specs make it a go-to choice for vessels over 20,000 kg, where standard drives fall short.
How the Hydraulic Linear Drive Enhances Your Steering
This unit connects directly to your rudder stock through an independent tiller arm, bypassing traditional cable systems for direct hydraulic power. It back-drives your existing mechanical steering, allowing manual overrides when needed. Paired with Raymarine’s ACU-400 course computer, it syncs flawlessly with Evolution or advanced autopilot pilots, using sensor feedback for adaptive steering that learns your boat’s nuances over time.
Real-world tip: In choppy conditions, the hydraulic ram’s smooth action reduces wear on your steering gear, extending the life of tiller arms and linkages compared to electric drives that can jerk under load.
Streamlined Installation for Experienced Installers
Mount the drive unit near the rudder post, ensuring clearance for the full 300 mm stroke. Hydraulic lines route cleanly to the pump and reservoir, with accessory fittings often needed from your steering manufacturer. Key requirement: Your system must allow back-driving to prevent binding. Professional calibration via the ACU-400 ensures optimal performance—dockside tests confirm torque output before sea trials.
Pro insight: Space it 12-18 inches from the rudder stock for balanced leverage, minimizing stress on mounts during heavy weather.
Why Choose a Remanufactured Unit?
Factory remanufactured to exacting standards, this drive undergoes rigorous testing for hydraulic integrity, pump efficiency, and ram sealing. It performs like new while offering exceptional value—think proven durability from units that powered vessels worldwide, now refreshed for your next adventure. Environmentally smarter too, reducing waste from perfectly good components.
Longevity Through Simple Care
Check hydraulic fluid levels annually and inspect seals for leaks. Flush the system every two years with marine-grade fluid to prevent contamination. In saltwater environments, rinse exterior fittings post-use. These steps keep thrust consistent and response sharp, often outlasting original timelines with proper attention.
Frequently Asked Questions
What size boats is the Raymarine Type 3 Hydraulic Linear Drive suited for?
It’s designed for larger mechanically steered vessels displacing over 20,000 kg, with a maximum capacity of 35,000 kg—ideal for heavy displacement or semi-displacement hulls.
