Autopilot Question / Help

[Mannheim]

I am looking for recommendations for an autopilot unit for my Ranger 621. I have a Mercury 300 Verado pro and a 9.9 kicker. I was looking at the Garmin TR-1 but have some questions. I troll for walleye with the kicker but use the 300 for trolling for salmon in Lake Michigan. I would like the autopilot to work on both motors. Would the TR-1 do this or should I be looking at the Raymarine SPX-5R or the new Garmin GPH 20? Thanks in advance for your help.

[orchard frank]

I have ran a TR-1 for over 9 seasons. Mine is hooked to a 15hp 4S Merc. The TR-1 will not run the big engine. You would have to move to the GHP Garmin, or one of the other auto-pilots available. Not sure if the GHP could run a kicker via a connect rod. A friend has the GHP on a 150 Yami., very impressive performance. Not sure why you don't want to use the kicker for salmon trolling, I have had no problems using my set up on a 21'boat, can easily maintain salmon speeds in rough water, just need the correct prop. Whatever you decide on, a good auto-pilot is a spoiler. The main engine autos have the advantage of being able to use them at cruising speeds.

[Mannheim]

Thanks for your help. After doing a little research I have decided to order a Garmin GHP-10. This should work on the 300 and kicker.