This is where the manual becomes dense.
The Simrad RF300 installation manual is not merely a pamphlet of warnings and diagrams—it is the definitive guide to ensuring that your autopilot system has accurate, real-time rudder position data. By following the mechanical, electrical, and calibration steps outlined above, and by respecting the nuances that only real-world experience (like this article) can provide, you will achieve a professional-grade installation.
Remember: a poorly installed RF300 is worse than no feedback sensor at all, because it feeds bad data to the autopilot. Conversely, a correctly installed RF300 transforms an average autopilot into a precision steering instrument. Keep the manual in your vessel’s technical logbook, revisit it after any steering system maintenance, and you will enjoy reliable, hands-free navigation for years to come.
Disclaimer: This article is an educational supplement. Always refer to the official Simrad RF300 installation manual provided by Navico for your specific autopilot model and system configuration. Improper installation can lead to loss of steering control. If in doubt, consult a certified marine electronics installer.
Installing the Simrad RF300 Rotary Feedback Unit Go to product viewer dialog for this item.
involves precise mechanical alignment and a simple two-wire electrical connection to your autopilot computer. This unit is specifically designed for boats with inboard engines to provide high-resolution rudder position data. Mechanical Installation
Factory Calibration: Do not remove the transmitter arm from the unit; it is factory-adjusted and should only be moved via the linkage during installation. Placement : Mount the
on a stable platform so its center is aligned with the center of the rudder post. It can be mounted horizontally, vertically, or upside down. Alignment: Set the rudder to the center position. Rotate the
transmitter lever to its center position using the alignment marks (the lever should be opposite the cable entry).
Linkage: Drill and tap the rudder tiller arm so the distance from the rudder post center to the ball joint (Y1) is equal to the distance from the
center to its ball joint (Y2). This ensures a 1:1 mechanical relationship. Wiring & Connections Interface: The
uses a two-wire frequency interface to connect directly to the autopilot computer.
Terminals: For standard Simrad junction units (like the J300X or AC series), connect the Brown wire to Terminal 11 and the White wire to Terminal 12.
Cable: The unit typically comes with a 10m (33') cable, which can be extended using standard 2-conductor marine wire if necessary. Commissioning & Troubleshooting
Source Selection: After physical installation, use your Simrad Multifunction Display (MFD) or autopilot controller to perform an "Auto Source Select" in the network settings so the system recognizes the feedback unit. simrad rf300 installation manual
Calibration: Navigate to the Dockside Settings menu to perform the "Rudder Feedback Calibration" and "Rudder Test" to verify the system sees the live changing values as the helm is turned.
Alarms: If you receive a "Rudder Feedback Alarm," double-check that the alignment marks were correctly observed during the center-position setup.
For further assistance, you can download related documentation from the Simrad Autopilot Support Page. Simrad LIVE | Autopilot - Setup , Calibration and Features
Whether you’re a seasoned sailor or a weekend cruiser, few things are more frustrating than an autopilot that can’t find its "center." If your Simrad system is acting twitchy, it’s time to talk about the unsung hero of the helm: the RF300 Feedback Unit
Installing this little device is the secret to getting that smooth, "on-rails" steering experience. Here is the unofficial guide to getting your RF300 mounted and calibrated without losing your cool. 1. The "Sweet Spot" Placement
The RF300’s job is to tell your autopilot exactly where your rudder is pointing. To do that accurately, it needs to be mounted on a flat surface, usually near the rudder post or steering quadrant.
Position the unit so the feedback arm is as close to parallel with the rudder arm as possible when the rudder is amidships. If the geometry is off, your autopilot will get "confused" by non-linear readings. 2. Making the Connection
The RF300 comes with a transmission link (that adjustable metal rod). You’ll want to: Attach one end to the RF300's arm. Attach the other to the rudder arm/quadrant. The Golden Rule:
Ensure the movement is completely unobstructed. Manually move the helm from hard-over to hard-over before you wire anything up to make sure nothing binds or snaps. 3. Wiring Without the Worry
Simrad kept it simple here. The RF300 typically uses a two-wire frequency interface. Green/White:
To the "Rudder" input on your Autopilot Computer (like an AC10, AC20, or AC42). To the common/ground return.
Note: Always double-check your specific computer's manual, as wire colors can vary slightly depending on the production year. 4. The "Moment of Truth" Calibration
Once it's bolted down and wired in, you aren't done yet. You have to teach the computer what "center" looks like. Enter your Autopilot’s Installation Menu Rudder Feedback Calibration
Follow the prompts to turn the wheel hard-over to Starboard, then Port, and finally back to Center. Why bother? This is where the manual becomes dense
A perfectly installed RF300 doesn't just make the boat go straight—it reduces wear and tear on your steering pump and saves fuel by eliminating "hunting" (that zig-zagging motion common in poorly calibrated systems).
Are you seeing a specific error code like "No Rudder Response" on your display, or are you starting this install from scratch?
Simrad RF300 Go to product viewer dialog for this item. is a high-resolution, rotary rudder feedback unit that converts mechanical rudder movement into a variable frequency digital signal for autopilot computers. Core Installation Requirements
Mechanical Connection: The unit must be mechanically linked to the rudder tiller arm or quadrant. It is critical that the center of the
is aligned with the center of the rudder post for accurate measurement.
Factory Calibration: Do not attempt to remove the transmitter arm from the feedback unit; it is factory-adjusted and only requires external setup as described in the Instruction Manual. Mounting Orientation: The
can be mounted horizontally, vertically, or upside-down, provided it is on a stable platform. Installation Steps
Alignment: Set the rudder tiller arm to the approximate center position. Rotate the
transmitter lever until its alignment mark is opposite the cable entry into the unit.
Mechanical Linkage: Drill and tap the rudder tiller arm (typically using a 4.2 mm drill and 5 mm tap). Attach the ball joint to the tiller and connect the transmitter rod between the tiller and the
Final Positioning: Secure the unit with provided screws. If necessary, use blocking material under the unit to ensure the transmitter lever is level with the rudder tiller arm.
Wiring: The unit typically uses a two-wire frequency interface for direct connection to autopilot computers. Refer to your specific autopilot computer manual (e.g., Robertson Junction Units) for correct terminal assignments, often terminals 11 and 12. Technical Specifications Interface Two-wire variable frequency Supply Voltage 12–16V DC (via CAN or computer) Waterproof Rating IPx6 (Rugged/Sealed) Cable Length Comes with 10 meters (33 feet) Operating Temp -10°C to +55°C (+32°F to +131°F) Troubleshooting & Calibration DD15 Direct Drive Installation Manual - info-mediawinkel
The Simrad RF300 Go to product viewer dialog for this item. is a rotary rudder feedback unit that converts physical rudder movement into a frequency signal for an autopilot computer. Proper mechanical alignment is critical during installation to avoid rudder feedback alarms. Mechanical Installation Center Alignment: Before mounting, rotate the
transmitter lever to its center position using the built-in alignment mark. This mark should be directly opposite the cable entry point. Positioning: Mount the The Simrad RF300 installation manual is not merely
on a flat platform with its center in line with the center of the rudder post. Linkage Setup:
The transmitter rod should ideally be set to the inner limit of the transmitter lever's outer slot.
The distance from the center of the rudder post to the tiller arm ball joint (Y1) must equal the distance from the center of the
to the feedback lever ball joint (Y2) to ensure a 1:1 mechanical ratio.
Mounting: Use a 4.2 mm drill and 5 mm tap to attach the ball joint to the tiller arm. Wiring & Electrical Connection: The
uses a 2-wire cable (10m length included) to connect to the autopilot junction box.
Junction Box Terminals: Standard wiring often involves connecting the brown wire to terminal 11 and the white wire to terminal 12 on compatible Simrad junction boxes.
Signal Output: It operates at 12V DC and outputs a frequency signal where 3400 Hz represents the center position. Each +/- 20 Hz shift indicates one degree of rudder change. Configuration
Source Selection: After physical installation, perform an "Auto Source Select" in the network settings of your Simrad MFD
or dedicated controller (like an AP44 or AP48) to ensure the system recognizes the
Calibration: Verify the unit's operation by turning the helm from hard-over to hard-over to ensure the linkage moves freely and the feedback value changes correctly on the display.
For full system diagrams and official documentation, you can visit the Simrad Autopilot Downloads page.
Are you installing this as part of a new autopilot system or replacing a faulty unit on an existing setup? INSTALLATION REV A Instruction Manual Page 72