ECU 14

The Garmin ECU 14 (Electronic Control Unit) is a central component designed specifically for Garmin Reactor™ 40 Kicker autopilot systems. It is essential for the precise operation of the autopilot with auxiliary engines.

The ECU 14 processes data received from the CCU (Course Computer Unit) of the autopilot. Its role is to precisely control the steering and throttle actuators of the auxiliary engine, thereby maintaining the vessel's heading and speed.

The Garmin ECHOMAP Ultra 14 has compact dimensions of 17.5 x 14.2 x 6.5 cm (6.9” x 5.6” x 2.6”), making it easy to install on your vessel.

The ECU 14 is designed to operate within an extended power supply voltage range from 10 to 32 volts. It must be connected to a 12 to 24 Vdc power source.

The typical electrical consumption of the ECU 14 is on average 1 to 2 amperes, although this can vary depending on sailing conditions and autopilot usage.

Yes, the ECU 14 is designed for the marine environment. It has an IPX7 waterproof rating, ensuring resistance to temporary immersion up to 1 meter deep for 30 minutes.

The electronic control unit (ECU) 14 is designed to operate within a wide temperature range, from -20° to 70° C, ensuring reliability in various marine weather conditions.

The ECU 14 is specifically part of the Garmin Reactor™ 40 Kicker autopilot system range. It is a central component of these systems.

The ECU 14 is specifically designed for vessels equipped with auxiliary engines or trolling motors (kicker engines). It is not intended for universal autopilot controllers or systems dedicated to main hydraulic engines.

No, this autopilot system is not compatible with the Shadow Drive™ function. After completing the Dockside Wizard assistant, it is mandatory to disable the Shadow Drive valve in the settings; otherwise, an error message will persist.

A dedicated control display is not included in all packages. If the autopilot is installed without a dedicated control display, the course computer unit (CCU) must be connected to the same NMEA 2000® network as a compatible Garmin chartplotter to configure and control the system.

Yes, the heading computer unit (CCU) and, if applicable, the control display must be connected to an NMEA 2000® network. If your boat does not have one, a basic network can be built with the cables and connectors provided with the autopilot system.

Yes, to use a Garmin Reactor™ 40 Kicker autopilot system with certain Suzuki™ outboards, additional components provided in a specific adapter kit are required. The installation instructions for this kit must be used together with those from the autopilot’s base pack.

It is strongly recommended that the autopilot system be installed by a qualified marine installer. Specific knowledge of marine steering and electrical systems is required for correct installation and to avoid any damage or injury.

The ECU 14 can be mounted on a flat surface in any orientation. However, it must be installed in a location where it will not be submerged or exposed to frequent washdowns.

The CCU, being the primary sensor, must be mounted away from magnetic interference sources. It is recommended not to place it less than 60 cm (2 feet) from iron, magnets, high-current wires, or intermittent pumps. A large magnet, such as that of a subwoofer, must be at least 1.5 m (5 feet) away. A portable compass can be used to test for magnetic interference at the chosen location.

Yes, the steering actuator must absolutely be installed in a stainless steel tilt tube. Using a tube made of any other material will cause rust to form and, eventually, the actuator to seize. Some engine manufacturers use non-stainless steel tubes that must be replaced.

No, the cables connecting the steering actuator and the throttle actuator to the ECU cannot be cut or extended. It is essential to plan the installation so that these cables reach their respective components without modification.

After physical installation, the autopilot system must be configured and adjusted to your boat's dynamics. This is done using two wizards: the Dockside Wizard (dockside assistant) and the Sea Trial Wizard (sea trial assistant), which guide you through the necessary configuration steps.

Mechanical damage to the autopilot drive unit caused by attempting to free a stuck push rod is not covered by the product warranty. This can occur if the autopilot is installed in a tilt tube that is not made of stainless steel, leading to rust and jamming.