SI-TEX SP-80-7 Mechanical Dash Drive w/Built-In Feedback

Description

Connect a compatible mechanical cable-steering helm to an SI-TEX processor with the SI-TEX SP-80-7 Mechanical Dash Drive. This 12V rotary dash drive uses a reversing DC motor and direct-to-helm cable connection for standard push-pull steering cables. Its integrated rudder-feedback sensor is part of the drive assembly, while the behind-dash installation requires approximately 8.5 inches of total drive depth.

The drive supports a maximum cable torque of 150 lb and typical current draw of 3A to 5A, with a 12A maximum load. It works with SI-TEX SP-70 and SP-80 processors and uses a standard mechanical cable socket. The reinforced steel and alloy chassis weighs approximately 4.1 kg, or 9 lb. Confirm cable-steering compatibility, dash clearance, circuit capacity, and processor requirements before installation.

Key Specifications of the SI-TEX SP-80-7 Mechanical Dash Drive

• The 12V mechanical rotary dash drive connects directly to standard push-pull steering cables through a compatible dashboard helm arrangement.
• A reversing heavy-duty DC motor provides the stated mechanical-drive function for compatible SI-TEX SP-70 and SP-80 autopilot processors.
• Integrated rudder feedback is part of the drive assembly, supporting the documented feedback arrangement without a separate sensor component.
• Maximum cable torque is specified at 150 lb, requiring exact compatibility checks with the installed steering-cable and helm system.
• Typical current draw ranges from 3A to 5A, with a 12A maximum load for 12V circuit and fuse planning.
• Behind-dash installation requires approximately 8.5 inches of total drive depth, plus access for cable routing and inspection.
• A reinforced steel and alloy chassis weighs approximately 4.1 kg, requiring suitable dashboard support for the installed drive.

Drive and Steering Integration

This SI-TEX unit is a mechanical drive component, not a complete autopilot system or standalone controller. It requires a compatible SI-TEX SP-70 or SP-80 processor and a compatible standard push-pull steering cable. The behind-dash drive connects directly to the helm through its standard cable socket and rotary cable-drive arrangement.

Plan the installation around the 8.5-inch drive depth, steering-cable geometry, direct helm connection, 12V circuit capacity, and access for inspection. The drive housing is described as splash resistant, but no IP rating is supplied. Use SI-TEX installation documentation for drive alignment, mechanical connection, electrical protection, feedback setup, and complete autopilot commissioning.

Why Choose the SI-TEX SP-80-7 Mechanical Dash Drive

The SI-TEX SP-80-7 Mechanical Dash Drive combines a 12V reversing motor, direct push-pull cable interface, integrated rudder-feedback sensor, and behind-dash mounting. Its 150 lb cable-torque limit, 3A to 5A typical draw, 12A maximum load, 8.5-inch drive depth, standard cable socket, and SP-70 or SP-80 processor compatibility provide specific checks for a cable-steering autopilot installation.

Setup and Network Considerations

Confirm that the vessel uses a compatible standard push-pull cable steering system and has a matching SI-TEX SP-70 or SP-80 processor. Check dashboard depth for the 8.5-inch drive unit, verify cable alignment and direct helm connection, and plan a 12V circuit capable of supporting the 12A maximum load. Follow SI-TEX instructions for mechanical fitment, wiring, feedback configuration, and commissioning.

Warranty and Support

SI-TEX warranty terms vary by product and region, and the supplied specifications do not provide a named warranty period for the SP-80-7 drive. Mulmarine.com can help you review cable-steering compatibility, dash depth, cable-torque limit, processor requirements, integrated rudder feedback, and 12V circuit capacity before purchase. Review the applicable SI-TEX warranty coverage and documented package contents before ordering.

Before Ordering the SI-TEX SP-80-7 Mechanical Dash Drive

Confirm that your vessel uses compatible standard push-pull cable steering and has an SI-TEX SP-70 or SP-80 autopilot processor. You should verify the 8.5-inch behind-dash depth, direct helm connection, steering-cable routing, 150 lb maximum cable torque, integrated feedback requirement, 12V circuit capacity for up to 12A, and available dashboard support before purchase.