DD15 Power Unit

The DD15 Power Unit provides a maximum torque of 150 Nm, ensuring precise helm control even in challenging conditions.

The DD15 Power Unit is designed for seamless integration with B&G (H5000, Triton²) and Simrad (AP44, AP48) autopilot systems.

The DD15 Power Unit operates on a 12V DC supply.

No, thanks to its direct drive design, the DD15 Power Unit is significantly quieter than cable or hydraulic systems.

No, due to its mechanical efficiency, the DD15 Power Unit has optimized power consumption, which is a major advantage for offshore cruising.

Detailed installation instructions are provided with the product. It is recommended to consult them carefully before proceeding with the installation.

Like all marine equipment, the DD15 power unit requires regular maintenance to ensure its proper functioning and longevity. It is recommended to follow the manufacturer's instructions regarding maintenance.

The DD15 power unit is the same for the B&G and Simrad brands. It is designed to be compatible with the autopilot systems of both brands.

The DD15 power unit is optimized for sailboats from 30 to 40 feet. Using it on a larger sailboat could compromise its performance and reliability.

The average power consumption of the DD15 is 2 amperes at 12V. This low consumption is achieved thanks to a pancake motor design offering an efficiency of 72.5%, significantly higher than standard DC motors.

The DD15 power unit weighs 12 kg (26.5 lb). This optimized weight facilitates installation aboard without compromising the boat's structural performance.

Yes, the DD15 is compatible with several Simrad autopilot computers. The achievable rudder torques vary by model:

AC10 (J3000X): 73 Kgm at tiller, 140 Kgm at full helmAC20 (J300X): 80 Kgm at tiller, 150 Kgm at full helmAC42N, NAC-3, AC70: 80 Kgm at tiller, 150 Kgm at full helm

The DD15 uses a pancake motor (flat-winding motor). This type of motor offers several advantages: high starting torque, immediate response to autopilot control signals, an efficiency of 72.5%, and compact dimensions relative to the power output.

The DD15 is equipped with a patented electromagnetic clutch. Unlike friction clutches, it uses two electrically controlled spring-loaded pins that engage or disengage the ring gear of the planetary gear train. When unpowered, the clutch is disengaged, allowing manual wheel operation without resistance. Its power draw is only 1.2 A at 12 V when powered.

The DD15 electromagnetic clutch offers several advantages:

Low friction in disengaged mode, making manual manoeuvres easierReduced power consumption (1.2 A at 12 V)No wear over time, unlike friction clutchesPrecise engagement and disengagement controlled by the autopilot's computer

Yes, the DD15 is designed for sailboats from 30 to 40 feet. With an output torque of 150 Kgm, it is perfectly suited to a 35-foot sailboat, whether for cruising or regattas, providing precise and responsive helm control.

The DD15 operates on a 12V DC supply, both for the motor and the clutch. It is therefore compatible with the standard power supply of sailboats.

The DD15 power unit is supplied with an RF300 rudder feedback unit and a 10-metre cable. This feedback unit is essential for transmitting the rudder position to the autopilot computer.

Installing the DD15 requires adhering to precise center-of-operation specifications for a tiller travel of 72° (2x36°). Two configurations are possible:

Output center 130 mm, offset distance 106 mm, tiller center 200 mmOutput center 165 mm, offset distance 127 mm, tiller center 250 mmIt is recommended to follow the provided installation manual to ensure optimal operation.

Draglink length depends on the installation configuration. Several options are available:

200-300 mm (DL2030)300-400 mm (DL3040)400-500 mm (DL4050)500-600 mm (DL5060)Custom length on requestIt is important to specify the length suited to your installation when ordering.

Yes, the DD15 is designed for seamless integration with B&G autopilot systems (H5000, Triton²) and Simrad (AP44, AP48). It connects directly to the autopilot computer for precise helm control.

The DD15’s pancake motor delivers 72.5 % efficiency, which is significantly higher than the 50 % maximum of conventional DC motors. This efficiency translates to minimal electrical consumption and maximum mechanical power.

The exact dimensions of the DD15 are detailed in the installation manual (Figure 5-1). The unit is designed to be compact relative to its output power, making it easier to integrate into the often limited space of the helm compartment.

The RF300 tiller pilot feedback unit must be mounted on the supplied bracket using the included screws. With the tiller centered, ensure the transmitter lever and the output lever are parallel and pointing in the same direction. Then attach one end of the pushrod to the output lever.

The DD15 is designed for a rudder angle of 72° (2x36°). The hard-over time depends on the autopilot computer used and the control speed setting.

The DD15 is a direct-drive system that mechanically connects to the tiller quadrant, whereas a hydraulic system uses a ram and pressurized fluid. The DD15 provides a more direct response, less play, simpler installation, and reduced power consumption. It is particularly suited to sailboats from 30 to 40 feet where simplicity and efficiency are sought.

The DD15 power unit weighs 12 kg (26.5 lb).

The DD15 power unit motor operates at a voltage of 12V.

The average electrical consumption of the DD15 unit is 2 amperes at 12V.

The DD15 power unit is designed for sailboats from 30 to 40 feet.

Yes, the DD15 unit is compatible with the Simrad AC10 autopilot computer (J3000X). In this configuration, the output torque is 73 kgm at the tiller and 140 kgm at the full wheel.

Yes, the DD15 is compatible with the Simrad AC20 computer (J300X). With this computer, the output torque reaches 80 kgm at the tiller and 150 kgm at the wheel.

The DD15 unit uses a flat-winding electric motor (pancake motor). This motor type provides high starting torque and immediate response to autopilot control signals.

When the clutch is powered (engaged), its power consumption is 1.2 amperes at 12V.

Yes, the DD15 unit is supplied with an RF300 rudder feedback unit featuring a 10-metre cable.

For installation with a tiller swing of 72° (2x36°), the mounting hole spacing dimensions are as follows:

Output spacing: 130 mm, Offset distance: 106 mm, Rudder stock spacing: 200 mmOutput spacing: 165 mm, Offset distance: 127 mm, Rudder stock spacing: 250 mm

During installation, mount the rudder feedback unit on the provided bracket. With the tiller centered, ensure the transmitter lever and the output lever are parallel and pointing in the same direction. Then attach one end of the pushrod to the output lever.

The customs code (HS Code) for the DD15 unit is 8413600030.