Type 2 long mechanical linear actuator, 24V

This cylinder is an autopilot actuator designed primarily for sailboats. It provides high thrust force and extended travel, ideal for tiller or wheel systems requiring large movement amplitude to control the rudder.

The long version provides greater travel compared to standard or short models. It is essential when the mounting point on the tiller quadrant or the gooseneck arm requires a larger range to achieve full rudder deflection.

This specific model (reference M81134) operates exclusively on a 24V power supply. This optimizes onboard electrical consumption and reduces the required cable cross-section compared to a 12V installation.

The linear actuator weighs approximately 8.16 kg (18 lbs). It is important to plan for a structurally robust mounting bracket capable of supporting this weight as well as the high thrust forces generated while sailing.

Raymarine recommends servicing the hydraulic ram every 2 years or every 1,000 hours of use, whichever comes first. This maintenance must be performed by an authorized Raymarine representative to ensure reliability and longevity.

The actuator is supplied with a complete mounting kit for attachment to the rudder stock arm. The kit includes:

A rudder stock arm pinA retaining pinR lock washers (upper and brake)A 1/2-inch Nylock nut

This type 2 mechanical actuator connects directly to Raymarine autopilot computers, including recent models in the ACU series (such as the ACU-400) as well as older SPX-series autopilot computers.

No, this model is strictly designed to operate on 24V. If your boat’s battery bank is 12V, you must choose the 12V version of the type 2 cylinder (reference M81132 for the long model).

Although they can technically be adapted to various tiller systems, mechanical linear actuators are primarily designed and recommended for sailboats. For powerboats, hydraulic pumps or specific actuators are generally preferred depending on the existing steering system.

Yes, it is strongly recommended that the equipment be powered by a battery bank independent of the one used for engine starting. Large voltage drops during starting can disrupt the autopilot system.

For a cable length up to 3 meters on this 24V model, you must use cables with a minimum cross-section of 4 mm² (AWG 12) to avoid power losses.

If the distance between the heading computer and the actuator reaches 10 meters, Raymarine’s recommended cable cross-section for this 24 V model is 10 mm² (AWG 8).

For a maximum distance of up to 16 meters, it is mandatory to use 16 mm² cables (AWG 6) to ensure optimal electrical power supply to the actuator.

The ram must be mounted at a right angle (90 degrees) relative to the rudder stock. Additionally, it must be in the exact mid-stroke position when the rudder is perfectly centered (midship).

Installation requires high precision: the pushrod must be aligned with the rotation plane of the rudder arm with a variation of less than 5 degrees. Misalignment can prematurely damage the actuator.

To avoid electromagnetic interference, the actuator must be installed at least 1 meter (3 feet) away from any equipment transmitting radio signals, such as VHF radios, their cables, and their antennas.

Yes, the safety distance must be increased. The actuator should be placed more than 2 metres (7 feet) from HF radios (SSB) and more than 2 metres (7 feet) from a radar beam (which typically extends 20 degrees above and below the antenna).

Cutting and splicing the cables specified by Raymarine is not recommended, as it may compromise the electromagnetic performance (EMC) of the device. If this is absolutely necessary, you must strictly follow the official installation manual's guidelines.

A voltage drop below 10V will not physically damage the equipment, but it may cause the system to reset. This can result in the loss of some heading data and alter the autopilot's operating mode while underway.

Absolutely. The type 2 mechanical ram generates very high thrust force. It is strongly recommended to consult the manufacturer of your steering system if you have any doubts about the strength of your existing rudder arm or quadrant.