Compact Reactor™ 40 autopilot kit for hydraulic systems with GHC™ 50 instrument pack Including GHC™ 50 autopilot instrument

The Compact Reactor™ 40 autopilot kit for hydraulic systems with the GHC™ 50 instrument pack includes the following main components:

A course computer unit (CCU)An electronic control unit (ECU)A hydraulic pumpAn autopilot instrument GHC™ 50The necessary connection cables between main componentsNMEA 2000 T-connector fittings for the networkMounting hardware (screws, nuts, template)An audible alarmPlease note that the Shadow Drive™ sensor is an optional item and may not be included in all packs.

This autopilot is specifically designed for single outboard-powered boats, typically under 25 feet (though some sources indicate up to 30 feet), equipped with hydraulic steering systems.

The 9-axis solid-state AHRS (Attitude Heading Reference System) is designed to minimize heading error, course deviation, and rudder movements. It also helps optimize the system's energy consumption.

Garmin's Shadow Drive™ technology is an optional feature that allows the autopilot to disengage automatically when you take manual control of the helm for a maneuver. Once the heading is stabilized, the autopilot reactivates automatically.

The dimensions of the GHC™ 50 instrument without the sunshade are 105 mm (height) x 140 mm (width) x 51 mm (depth).

The GHC™ 50 instrument is rated IPX7 per IEC 60529. This means it can withstand accidental immersion in water up to 1 meter deep for a maximum of 30 minutes.

The operating temperature range of the GHC™ 50 instrument is -15°C to 55°C (5°F to 131°F).

Yes, it is strongly recommended that the autopilot system be installed by a qualified marine installer. Specific knowledge of marine steering systems and electrical systems is essential for correct installation and to avoid any risk of injury or damage to the boat.

For optimal performance, the CCU must be mounted on a rigid surface, in a non-submersible location, near the center of the boat, in any orientation. It is crucial to position it away from sources of magnetic interference such as iron, magnets, high-current wires, and intermittently operating pumps. Ideally, it should be located as close as possible to the boat’s center of rotation, on the centerline, lower down, and slightly forward.

To test a mounting location for the CCU, use a handheld compass. Hold the compass at the proposed location, then move it 15 cm (6 inches) to the left, right, up, down, forward, and backward. If the compass needle moves more than three degrees during this test, it indicates the presence of magnetic interference. In this case, you will need to select a new mounting location and repeat the test.

The ECU can be mounted on a flat surface in any orientation. However, it must be located no more than 0.5 meters (19 inches) from the hydraulic pump. The cables connecting the ECU to the pump cannot be extended. Additionally, the ECU must be installed in a location where it will not be submerged or exposed to splashing.

The hydraulic pump must be mounted where the boat's hydraulic steering lines can be extended. It must be located within 0.5 meters (19 inches) of the ECU. Ideally, the pump should be mounted horizontally. If vertical mounting is necessary, the hydraulic connections must face upward.

Yes, the CCU cable has a standard length of 5 meters (16 feet). If the CCU cannot be mounted within 5 meters of the ECU, extension cables are available from your Garmin dealer or at garmin.com. It is important to note that this cable must not be cut.

The tools and supplies required for installation include:

Safety glassesDrill and bitsWrenchesJigsaw or rotary cutting tool (for optional tiller pilot installation)Pliers (cutting/stripping)Phillips and flat-head screwdriversCable tiesSolder and waterproof heat-shrink tubing or waterproof crimp connectorsDielectric greaseMarine sealantMarine corrosion inhibitor sprayPortable compass (to test magnetic interference)Hydraulic hoses with field-replaceable crimp or reusable fittings (minimum 1000 psi)Hydraulic T-fittingsHydraulic fluidThread sealantHydraulic bleeding kitMounting screws are supplied for main components, but you may need different screws if the supplied ones do not suit your mounting surface.

The GHC™ 50 instrument is designed for flush mounting in your boat’s dashboard. The mounting surface must be flat, strong enough to support the unit’s weight, and protect it from excessive vibration or shock. The ideal location is at or below eye level for optimal viewing. A template and mounting hardware (wood screws or threaded plates and machine screws) are included. It is critical to use only the supplied screws for installation to avoid voiding the warranty.

Yes, the system is NMEA 2000® certified, ensuring smooth network communication and the ability to share heading data with other compatible Garmin devices. This integration enables advanced features such as MARPA and chart overlay when the autopilot is connected to a compatible Garmin radar and chartplotter.

The Electronic Control Unit (ECU) must be connected to a 12–24 V DC power source. The NMEA 2000 network, which powers the GHC™ 50 instrument and other autopilot components, must be connected to a 9–16 V DC power source. The NMEA 2000 power cable must be wired to the boat’s ignition switch or another inline switch to prevent battery drain.

No, the GHC™ 50 instrument is powered directly by the NMEA 2000 network. Therefore, it does not require a separate power connection.

No, the GHC™ 50 instrument cannot be updated solely via an NMEA 2000 connection. For software updates, it is recommended to use a connection via a Garmin marine network cable (9-pin, sold separately), especially if a compatible Garmin chartplotter is present on the network.

Garmin non-aviation products, including this autopilot kit, are warranted against defects in materials or workmanship for a period of one year from the date of purchase. During this time, Garmin will repair or replace, at its sole discretion, any defective component under normal use, free of charge for parts or labor. Shipping costs remain the responsibility of the customer.