(2024-02-02, 07:47 PM)seandepagnier Wrote: It doesnt auto-center, but by code it could, but what if it did not? If there was some problem and it was stuck all the way in or out, would this make hand steering difficult?
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Anyway, I would suggest considering waterproofing the actuator better. Replace the steel screws with stainless and coat the whole thing when you get it, and perhaps build a nice cover for it. It should be possible to build something around it to ensure it never gets wet but can still be used normally. It is good to be able to remove it and steer normally.
I don't think the auto-centering would be an issue. As for safety, even if the AP was at full lock and I had to go manual, I'd still have plenty of tiller room to go the full range. It'd just be off center. It would be a nice-to-have and if/when I get to that point, I try digging into your code.
Only part of the desire to put it down there is for weathering. I highly desire to de-clutter the cockpit and adding a AP just makes things worse. As it is, I'm changing helm, sail-plan, boom and sheeting for the main to get the traveler out of the cockpit.
Thanks.