Pack autopilot for Volvo-Penta® electronic steering systems (without Garmin GHC™ 20 autopilot display)

This autopilot pack is a dedicated solution for vessels equipped with Volvo Penta electronic steering systems, including IPS systems and electronic steering with joystick. It integrates with the vessel’s existing steer-by-wire technology for precise heading control.

The pack includes the Reactor 40 course control unit (CCU) and the Volvo IPS gateway, essential for communication between the autopilot and the Volvo Penta steering system. Note that this pack is supplied without the GHC 20 autopilot display.

The CCU Reactor 40 is the system’s core. It features a 9-axis solid-state Attitude and Heading Reference System (AHRS). This technology allows flexible installation, minimizes heading errors and power consumption, while providing adaptive heading correction.

The autopilot includes adaptive heading correction. This means it reacts to water conditions, such as the boat’s pitch or roll, to maintain heading accurately.

No, this pack is shipped without the GHC 20 autopilot display. It is intended for users who already own a compatible Garmin chartplotter or a GHC 50 autopilot instrument.

The Volvo IPS gateway is a critical component that enables the Garmin autopilot to communicate with your boat's electronic steering system. It provides the connection between the autopilot and the Volvo Penta steering system.

This pack is designed specifically for boats equipped with Volvo Penta electronic steering systems, including IPS systems and electronic steering systems with joystick (sterndrive).

If the GHC 20 display is not included, you must have a Garmin chartplotter or a GHC 50 autopilot instrument to set up and control the autopilot system. These devices must be connected to the same NMEA 2000 network as the CCU.

Yes, the course computer unit (CCU) and, if present, the helm control display must be connected to an NMEA 2000 network. If your boat does not already have an NMEA 2000 network, it is possible to build one using the included cables and connectors.

Yes, to use the advanced features of the autopilot, optional NMEA 2000 devices such as a wind sensor, water speed sensor, or GPS device can be connected to the NMEA 2000 network.

Yes, to avoid damaging your sailboat, the autopilot system must be installed by a qualified marine installer. Specific knowledge of hydraulic steering components and marine electrical systems is required for correct installation.

Required tools include:

Phillips and flathead screwdriversCable tiesWaterproof wire connectors (wire caps) or heat-shrink tubing and a heat gunMarine sealantPortable or handheld compass (to test magnetic interference)Safety glassesDrill and bits90 mm (3.5 in) hole saw or rotary cutting tool (for optional tiller pilot installation)Cutting/stripping pliersMounting screws are provided for main components, but if unsuitable, you must supply the correct screw types.

For optimal performance, the CCU must be mounted on a rigid surface, in a non-submerged area, near the boat’s center of rotation. The ideal location is also close to the boat’s central axis, lower in the boat, and slightly forward. It can be mounted in almost any orientation.

Yes, the CCU must be mounted away from magnetic interference sources. It is recommended not to place it less than 60 cm (2 ft) from iron, magnets, high-current wires, or intermittent pumps. Large magnets, such as those in subwoofer speakers, must be at least 1.5 m (5 ft) away. It is advisable to test the location with a portable compass to ensure the needle does not deviate by more than three degrees.

The CCU cable, which connects it to the steering system, is 3 meters (9 feet) long. This cable must not be cut. If the CCU cannot be mounted within 3 meters of the steering system, extension cables are available.

The autopilot system must be configured and adjusted to your boat's dynamics. This is done primarily via two assistants: the Dockside Wizard (dockside assistant) and the Sea Trial Wizard (sea trial assistant). If you do not have a dedicated helm control unit, configuration must be performed using a compatible Garmin chartplotter on the same NMEA 2000 network as the CCU.

The Dockside Wizard is an initial setup sequence that guides you through the necessary steps, such as selecting the vessel type, testing the steering, and choosing the speed source. It can be performed when the boat is in the water (stationary) or out of the water. If the boat is equipped with a power steering system, it must be activated before starting the assistant.

The Sea Trial Wizard configures the autopilot's core sensors and is critical to the system's proper operation. It must be performed in calm water conditions, where the boat does not pitch when stationary or at very low speed and is not significantly affected by wind. The onboard weight must remain balanced throughout the procedure. It includes compass calibration and the Autotune process.

The Autotune procedure is performed in a large open water area. You must adjust the throttle to maintain the boat at a typical cruising speed (below planning speed) with responsive steering. The boat will perform various zigzag maneuvers while Autotune is running to configure the autopilot.