Simrad AP44 VRF – High Capacity Autopilot Pack

Description

The Simrad AP44 VRF High Capacity Autopilot Pack is a complete high-capacity autopilot package for compatible hydraulic-steered outboard and sterndrive vessels up to 50 ft. It includes the AP44 autopilot controller, NAC-3 high-current course computer, Precision-9 solid-state heading sensor, RPU-160 reversible hydraulic pump, and required NMEA 2000 cables and connectors. It is designed for vessels that need a higher-capacity hydraulic autopilot system than the NAC-1 or NAC-2 platforms can support.

The NAC-3 provides 30A continuous drive output and up to 50A peak capacity for the included RPU-160 pump and compatible high-current applications. Virtual Rudder Feedback may remove the need for a separate physical rudder-feedback sensor on suitable hydraulic outboard and sterndrive installations. Confirm steering-cylinder volume, hydraulic pressure, pump fitment, vessel steering type, physical-feedback requirement, and complete hydraulic installation details before purchase.

Key Specifications

• Complete high-capacity Simrad autopilot package for compatible hydraulic-steered outboard and sterndrive vessels up to 50 ft.
• Includes AP44 controller, NAC-3 high-current course computer, Precision-9 nine-axis compass, RPU-160 hydraulic pump, and NMEA 2000 cables and connectors.
• Uses the NAC-3 course computer with 30A continuous and up to 50A peak drive output capacity.
• Designed for compatible high-current hydraulic pumps, mechanical drives, and solenoid-capable autopilot installations.
• Uses NMEA 2000 networking for autopilot, heading, display, and compatible navigation-data integration.
• Includes a Precision-9 solid-state nine-axis sensor for heading and vessel-motion data.
• Virtual Rudder Feedback may be suitable for compatible hydraulic outboard and sterndrive systems.
• Requires vessel-specific hydraulic hoses, fittings, pump mounting, circuit protection, and complete steering-system installation.

System Integration

This pack includes the central electronic components and RPU-160 pump, but vessel-specific hydraulic hoses, fittings, tee connections, isolation valves, and steering-manufacturer adapters may be required. Confirm the actual hydraulic-cylinder volume and pressure rating against RPU-160 specifications; do not select the package by vessel length alone.

The AP44 can provide heading control, No Drift steering, turn patterns, and route navigation when connected to compatible navigation sources. Route navigation requires an appropriately configured chartplotter or GPS source, while safe operation remains the responsibility of the vessel operator.

Installation Considerations

Mount the NAC-3 in a dry accessible location with adequate space for high-current power and drive wiring. Install the RPU-160 according to the approved hydraulic layout, use correctly rated hoses and fittings, and check the hydraulic system for leaks. Mount the Precision-9 away from magnetic interference and vibration, install the AP44 at the helm, configure VRF or physical feedback as required, and complete dockside setup and sea-trial calibration.

Before Ordering

Confirm compatible hydraulic outboard or sterndrive steering, vessel length up to 50 ft, steering-cylinder volume, hydraulic pressure, RPU-160 pump suitability, required hoses and fittings, 12V or 24V system configuration, NAC-3 drive capacity, AP44 helm space, Precision-9 sensor location, NMEA 2000 backbone, VRF or physical-feedback requirement, circuit protection, and complete installation components before purchase.