To choose a Raymarine autopilot, match an Evolution™ drive unit to your boat’s fully loaded displacement and steering type, then complete the system with the EV-1 sensor core, an ACU (actuator control unit), and a p70s or p70Rs control head. This guide explains how the Evolution series fits together, how to size the drive correctly, and how to install, calibrate, and maintain the system.
Raymarine Evolution drive units at a glance
| Drive type | Steering type | Suited boat displacement (fully loaded) |
|---|---|---|
| Type 1 Hydraulic | Hydraulic steering | Up to 22,000 lb (10,000 kg) |
| Type 2 Linear Mechanical | Mechanical/quadrant steering | 22,000–33,000 lb (10,000–15,000 kg) |
| Type 1 Rotary | Cable or chain steering | Lighter vessels with cable/chain systems |
| Wheel & tiller drives (EV-100 class) | Wheel or tiller steering | Smaller, lighter sailboats and powerboats |
If your boat sits near a boundary between two sizes, size up to the stronger drive — an under-powered drive will struggle in heavy weather.
What is a Raymarine Evolution autopilot?
Raymarine’s Evolution series is a family of marine autopilots built around adaptive steering intelligence: the algorithms learn your boat’s handling characteristics over time for accurate, efficient course-keeping without manual gain tuning. At the heart of every system is the EV-1 sensor core, which fuses 9-axis motion data (pitch, roll, yaw, and heading) to hold a course even in rough seas.
Evolution autopilots also integrate seamlessly with Axiom® chartplotters and NMEA 2000 networks, sharing heading data, tracking waypoints, and accepting control from compatible displays. Intelligent drive control keeps power draw low — a real advantage for sailboats on long passages where every amp counts.
What components make up a complete Evolution system?
A complete Raymarine Evolution autopilot typically includes four building blocks:
- EV-1 sensor core: detects pitch, roll, yaw, and heading changes.
- ACU (actuator control unit): powers and commands the drive unit.
- Drive unit: hydraulic, mechanical, rotary, wheel, or tiller — selected to match your steering type and displacement.
- Control head: the p70s (push-button, sail) or p70Rs (rotary, power) for intuitive pilot control.
These components talk to each other over the boat’s SeaTalkng / NMEA 2000 backbone, so the right cabling is as much a part of the system as the drive itself.
Which drive unit should I choose?
Choosing the correct drive is the most important decision in the whole system — it determines both performance and longevity. Work from your boat’s fully loaded displacement (with fuel, water, crew, and cruising gear aboard) and your steering type:
- Type 1 Hydraulic for hydraulically steered boats up to 22,000 lb (10,000 kg).
- Type 2 Linear Mechanical for boats of 22,000–33,000 lb (10,000–15,000 kg).
- Type 1 Rotary for lighter vessels with cable or chain steering.
Boats with Volvo Penta EVC drive-by-wire steering are a special case: instead of a conventional drive unit, the Evolution system connects directly to the engine’s steering electronics using dedicated Volvo interface cables.
How do I install and calibrate a Raymarine autopilot?
Installation: mount the EV-1 sensor core on the vessel’s centerline, away from magnetic interference. Use marine-grade cabling with waterproof connectors throughout, and secure the drive unit to solid structure so it cannot flex under load.
Calibration: run the Dockside Wizard to set rudder limits and drive type, then perform a slow-speed circle so the system can auto-calibrate its heading. Afterward, fine-tune the response levels (1–9) to balance tight course-keeping against power consumption.
How do I maintain and troubleshoot my autopilot?
Seasonal upkeep is simple: check hydraulic fluid each season on hydraulic drives, grease mechanical and linear drive fittings annually, keep the software updated, and inspect cable glands and connectors after heavy weather.
| Symptom | Possible cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Course wander | Response setting too high | Reduce the response level |
| Drive stalls | Low battery voltage | Check the charging system |
| No rudder feedback | Faulty rudder reference sensor | Inspect or replace the sensor |
Frequently asked questions
How do I choose the right Raymarine autopilot drive unit?
Match the drive to your boat’s fully loaded displacement and steering type: Type 1 Hydraulic suits boats up to 22,000 lb (10,000 kg), Type 2 Linear Mechanical suits 22,000–33,000 lb (10,000–15,000 kg), and Type 1 Rotary suits cable or chain steering on lighter vessels. If you are near a boundary, size up.
What components make up a Raymarine Evolution autopilot?
A complete system includes the EV-1 sensor core (pitch, roll, yaw, and heading), an ACU that powers the drive, a drive unit matched to your steering type, and a control head such as the p70s or p70Rs.
Does a Raymarine autopilot integrate with chartplotters?
Yes. Evolution autopilots connect to Axiom® chartplotters and NMEA 2000 networks, allowing shared heading data, waypoint tracking, and pilot control from compatible displays.
Where should the EV-1 sensor core be mounted?
Mount the EV-1 on the vessel’s centerline, away from magnetic interference, then run the Dockside Wizard and a slow-speed calibration circle before relying on it at sea.
What cables does a Raymarine Evolution autopilot need?
The EV-1, ACU, and control head communicate over a SeaTalkng / NMEA 2000 backbone, so you need backbone and spur cables sized to your layout; Volvo Penta EVC boats also need dedicated Volvo interface cables such as the Y-loom and EVC link cable.
How do I maintain a Raymarine autopilot?
Check hydraulic fluid each season on hydraulic drives, grease mechanical or linear fittings annually, keep software updated, and inspect cable glands and seals after heavy weather.