Simrad AP44 VRF Autopilot Pack, Virtual Rudder Feedback, NMEA 2000

Overview

The Simrad AP44 VRF is a complete autopilot pack for hydraulic-steered outboard and sterndrive boats, centered around the AP44 helm controller with a 4.1-inch full colour display and a rotary dial.

It uses Virtual Rudder Feedback (VRF) to reduce the need for a mechanical rudder feedback sensor on many planing-hull outboard and I/O installations, while still giving you a dedicated pilot head at the helm and full networked control over NMEA 2000.

Capacity options are sized by steering cylinder volume: Medium covers 80-250 cm³ and is targeted at boats up to 10 m (35 ft), while High covers 160-550 cm³ for boats up to 15 m (50 ft). The pack combines the pilot controller, autopilot computer, Precision-9 heading sensor, a reversible hydraulic pump matched to the capacity, and the network components needed to build out an NMEA 2000 backbone or connect into an existing one.

Key features

• AP44 helm controller with an optically bonded 4.1-inch colour display, rotary dial and keypad for quick course changes and mode control.
• Built-in turn patterns plus No Drift steering and depth contour tracking when GPS and depth data are available on the network.
• NMEA 2000 Micro-C connection (3 LEN) for sharing heading, NAV data, and pilot status with compatible displays.
• VRF can remove the need for a rudder feedback sensor on many outboard and sterndrive installations, which simplifies rigging.
• Capacity is matched to steering cylinder displacement: 80-250 cm³ (up to 10 m/35 ft) or 160-550 cm³ (up to 15 m/50 ft).
• Precision-9 solid-state compass provides heading and rate-of-turn data, with automatic compass calibration during setup.
• AP44 controller is IPX7-rated and built for flush mounting in a glass-helm style panel.

Variants

This autopilot pack is offered in multiple capacity configurations so the hydraulic pump and computer match the steering load on your boat.

Capacity refers to the steering cylinder displacement range the drive is intended to operate, along with the corresponding system size the pack is targeted for.

• 000-13291-002 - Capacity Medium. Sized for hydraulic steering cylinders from 80-250 cm³ and boats up to 10 m (35 ft).
• 000-13562-002 - Capacity High. Sized for hydraulic steering cylinders from 160-550 cm³ and boats up to 15 m (50 ft).

Compatibility and fit

These packs are built for hydraulic-steered outboards and sterndrives (I/O). Boats with a separate rudder, unusual steering geometry, or non-standard drive arrangements may still use a rudder feedback sensor as part of the system.

Before ordering, confirm your steering cylinder displacement and plan mounting space for the pump, computer, and the Precision-9 compass. The compass should be installed away from ferrous metals, speakers, and high-current wiring so heading data stays stable.

Installation and setup

The AP44 mounts flush at the helm. The autopilot computer is typically installed in a dry, ventilated location with short runs to the pump and a proper power feed, and the pump is plumbed into the hydraulic steering lines following the steering system manufacturer’s practices.

Commissioning is done through the AP44 with guided dockside setup followed by a short sea trial for auto-tuning. After plumbing, plan on bleeding the hydraulic circuit, then re-checking fittings and hose routing after the first outings.

Electrical and network integration

The AP44 connects via an NMEA 2000 Micro-C port and is powered from a 12 V DC supply (10.8-15.6 V DC). The included network components are intended to form a basic NMEA 2000 backbone or tie into an existing backbone on the boat.

When the autopilot is on the same network as a compatible chartplotter, you can steer to waypoints and routes and view pilot status from supported displays. For No Drift steering and depth contour tracking, the network needs valid GPS and depth inputs.

Use cases on board

This pack is a strong fit for planing-hull outboard and I/O boats that already have hydraulic steering and want a dedicated autopilot controller at the helm. It is commonly used for coastal runs, long transits between spots, and hands-free steering while trolling or working lines.

Maintenance and care

Support and protect network cabling from chafe, keep connectors dry, and inspect hydraulic fittings for seepage after initial use. If you change steering components, add major loads, or alter key network sensors, re-run calibration and auto-tune so the pilot behaviour stays predictable.

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