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Viking autopilot installation

Discussion in 'Viking Yacht' started by Jeff43, Mar 15, 2023.

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  1. Jeff43, Mar 15, 2023
    #1
    Jeff43

    Jeff43 New Member

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    Mar 15, 2023
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    Location:
    Syracuse, NY
    We have a 1987 Viking 48c Sportfish, that our customer wants to install a Garmin autopilot assy. When the mechanic was reviewing the current steering system for installation he could not find where to fill the hydraulic fluid on the system and the current customer just bought the boat and wasn't sure either. Garmin specifically says not to install the Smart Pump onto a non vented system or pump damage will occur. I am hoping someone has first hand experience with a steering system from a Viking to shed some light on this potential issue. Otherwise, we will be replacing the system on the boat with an updated version. Thanks in advance.
  2. Capt Ralph, Mar 15, 2023
    #2
    Capt Ralph

    Capt Ralph Senior Member

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    Are there 3 lines to the helm pumps?
    Hatt and others have theirs in the port stand up engine room.
    Low profile engine rooms like a sport fish, then usually near the rudder cylinder.
    Think of a place that would have some vertical clearance over it for servicing.

    Also, not far from the power steering pump (engine mounted) if equipped.
  3. Jeff43, Mar 15, 2023
    #3
    Jeff43

    Jeff43 New Member

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    Location:
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    Appreciate the help! I was able to use my "good eyes" (compared to the mechanics) and determine it is a Hynautic system installed on the boat.
  4. incoming, Mar 15, 2023
    #4
    incoming

    incoming Member

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    Location:
    Cocoa Beach, FL
    My Viking 58c has hynautic steering with multiple helms, reservoir is mounted on the port side of the engine room, just outboard of the back of the port engine gear box, exactly as described by Cpt Ralph
  5. Capt Ralph, Mar 15, 2023
    #5
    Capt Ralph

    Capt Ralph Senior Member

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    The Hynautic is a 3 line system. The Garmin will work fine.
    You need to still find the reservoir to relive pressure, refill lost fluid and re-charge pressure.
    Don't forget to add shut off valves to the lines on the new pump.

    Oh, you have ordered the Shadow Pump, rite??
  6. motoryachtlover, Mar 15, 2023
    #6
    motoryachtlover

    motoryachtlover Senior Member

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    Not sure if this will help but I just had an autopilot (Garmin) added on my 1995 54 Viking MY with one helm. There are shut off valves outside of the picture.

    Attached Files:

  7. Capt Ralph, Mar 15, 2023
    #7
    Capt Ralph

    Capt Ralph Senior Member

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    Location:
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    I do luv those quick disconnect lines on the pump in post #6.

    Here is an install pic (non Garmin) from a few years ago.
    Reservoir and AP Pump with valves.
    You may never use these valves. When you do, you will be so happy they are there.

    DSC05449a.jpg