Cetec Benmar course keeper 210

[Captainjlr]

Has anyone used or currently using a cetec benmar course keeper 210? How does the auto pilot operate with you're chart plotter? I have this autopilot installed I have not tested it but hoping to get it working with new garmin GPS and radar.

 

[Xlantic]

I don't know but you can ask Benmar:

Service

 

[T210DRVR]

Has anyone used or currently using a cetec benmar course keeper 210? How does the auto pilot operate with you're chart plotter? I have this autopilot installed I have not tested it but hoping to get it working with new garmin GPS and radar.

I just converted to a Garmin autopilot as part of a refresh of the existing electronics. As part of the update I got the new Garmin chart plotter, radar, and digital autopilot. We were able to retain the existing autopilot motor. That saved quite a bit on the install and cost of the system. I’m really happy with my new system.

I can operate the autopilot in “manual” mode as well as through the controls within the chart plotter.

 

[Jaep]

I did a search online with alot of info, put trawler forum in it also. There is a member who got his working by cleaning contacts and briefly explains the system. I will be following as I will be trying to get my Benmar working in the spring. Good Luck

 

[boomerang]

I think you're asking if the 210 will interface to your navigational equipment. I'm going way WAY back trying to remember using/working on one of these pilots but my first instinct is to say no, it will not interface to anything as it is a stand-alone pilot. They did a pretty good job of steering the boat actually, mainly because they were so simple! I *think* the subsequent models interfaced via nmea0180 and then 0183 but not the model you're speaking of. I would do as T210 recommended. Use it until it quits or until you're not happy with it and then replace the pilot with another more current model but use the benmar existing drive. You'll save a lot of $$ that way.

 

[MY Fortuna]

I just converted to a Garmin autopilot as part of a refresh of the existing electronics. As part of the update I got the new Garmin chart plotter, radar, and digital autopilot. We were able to retain the existing autopilot motor. That saved quite a bit on the install and cost of the system. I’m really happy with my new system.

I can operate the autopilot in “manual” mode as well as through the controls within the chart plotter.

Did you have to get the retrofit kit from Garmin? What unit did you go with?

 

[To the dark side]

I just converted to a Garmin autopilot as part of a refresh of the existing electronics. As part of the update I got the new Garmin chart plotter, radar, and digital autopilot. We were able to retain the existing autopilot motor. That saved quite a bit on the install and cost of the system. I’m really happy with my new system.

I can operate the autopilot in “manual” mode as well as through the controls within the chart plotter.

I just sent a message to you. Sorry about the late bump.

 

[To the dark side]

Did you have to get the retrofit kit from Garmin? What unit did you go with?

Did you ever receive an answer? I'm looking for the same info.

 

[SteveK]

The 210 does not have any chartplotter integration like the 220 which was built to integrate with Loran via NMEA 183.

 

[To the dark side]

The 210 does not have any chartplotter integration like the 220 which was built to integrate with Loran via NMEA 183.

Wasn't looking for integration. More using Garmin ECU to control existing benmar pump with 12v. If I'm not mistaken, on a pump with no clutch, the pump motor uses reverse polarity to change direction using simply 2 wires. Or, similarily powers relays to accomplish the same task, depending on pump. Clutched units have an additional 2 wires which I know the Garmin can also accommodate.

I still need to examine which mine is and if it is in fact operational. If there's no clutch, I plan on removing the electronics (that would have those relays) and power directly to the motor as I believe they are reversing 12vdc polarity.

Hoping the gentleman above who has already successfully connected the ECU to his existing benmar pump can share a little more information. His experience with the combo seems positive.