Imagine cruising your outboard or sterndrive boat without constantly gripping the wheel, letting the system handle precise course corrections while you focus on the horizon or reeling in the next catch. The DrivePilot Hydraulic-Steer Pack transforms your Simrad multifunction display into a full autopilot command center, delivering pro-level performance tailored for boats up to 30 feet. High-speed anglers and weekend adventurers alike rave about its responsive steering that feels intuitive, even in choppy conditions.
What sets this pack apart is its blend of commercial-grade components—like the Precision-9 rate compass—that punch above their weight for sportfishing boats pushing 40 knots. No more erratic heading drifts; instead, enjoy rock-solid tracking that saves fuel and reduces driver fatigue on long runs.
Seamless Control from Your Existing Display
Forget bulky dedicated autopilot screens cluttering your dash. This pack leverages your Simrad chartplotter’s touchscreen for heading holds, waypoint navigation, and route following. A simple dash-mounted auto/standby button—one press to engage, one to disengage—keeps things clutter-free and instinctive. Pair it with your sonar for Depth Contour Tracking, automatically hugging ledges or coastlines at a safe depth, ideal for trolling or exploratory cruising.
Users often highlight how this integration shines during multi-hour trips, where the system’s quiet operation lets conversations flow uninterrupted, unlike noisier pumps that drown out engine hums.
DIY-Friendly Setup That Pros Approve
Boat owners with basic wiring skills complete installs in a weekend, thanks to pre-fitted plug-and-socket connectors and a crystal-clear step-by-step guide. The included super-quiet 0.8L hydraulic pump slips into tight engine bays, while Virtual Rudder Feedback tech skips mechanical sensors on most setups—though an optional one ensures perfection for finicky sterndrives.
Pro tip from seasoned installers: Mount the Precision-9 compass away from magnetic interference for heading accuracy that rivals bigger systems. The result? Reliable performance without the hassle of custom hydraulics or endless calibration tweaks.
Powerful Tools for Real-World Boating
Beyond basics, unlock automatic turn patterns for efficient U-turns, man-overboards, or fish-finding circles—each optimized for fuel economy. The NAC-1 autopilot brain processes inputs lightning-fast, adapting to sea state for smoother rides than mechanical alternatives.
Commercial-grade heading stability at high speeds
Depth-aware contour following for safer, smarter paths
Reversible pump for responsive port/starboard adjustments
NMEA 2000 backbone for future-proof networking
Everything You Need in One Box
This all-in-one kit packs professional reliability without piecemeal sourcing:
NAC-1 Autopilot Computer: The intelligent core
Precision-9 Compass: Solid-state heading mastery
PUMP-1 Hydraulic Pump: Compact, whisper-quiet power
Dash-Mount Auto/Standby Button: Instant control
Full NMEA 2000 Cables & Terminators: Plug-and-play readiness
Micro-C Power Cable & Pump Fittings: Seamless hydraulics
Built to Withstand the Elements
Specification
Details
Waterproofing
IPX5
Max Drive Output
8A continuous, 16A peak
Network
1x Micro-C
Feedback
Variable voltage from helm/drive unit
Drive Output
To PUMP-1 or HELM-1
Input Voltage
12V DC
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the DrivePilot Hydraulic-Steer Pack suitable for high-speed boats?
Yes, the included Precision-9 compass provides exceptional heading stability for vessels running at high speeds, making it ideal for performance outboards and sportfishing setups.
