Connecting to an Existing Rudder Feedback Sensor
If you connected the autopilot to a drive unit not sold by Garmin, and you plan to connect to a rudder feedback
sensor not sold by Garmin, you must use a rudder feedback cable to connect your sensor to the Reactor 40
Mechanical autopilot. This cable is sold separately.
NOTE: The Reactor 40 Mechanical autopilot is compatible with a typical three-terminal, potentiometer-type
rudder feedback sensor only. The system does not work with a frequency-based rudder feedback sensor.
1 If necessary, use the installation instructions provided with the rudder feedback sensor to install it on your
boat.
2 If your rudder feedback sensor has cables connected, disconnect the cables.
3 Consult the documentation provided by the manufacturer of your rudder feedback sensor to identify the
connections on your rudder feedback sensor.
4 Connect the rudder feedback cable (not included) to your drive unit, based on the wire colors and functions
in the table.
If necessary, the cable can be extended using 22 AWG (0.33 mm
2
) wire.
Wire Color
Function
Red
Rudder feedback positive (+)
Black
Rudder feedback negative (-)
Yellow
Rudder feedback wiper
5 Connect the rudder feedback cable to the ECU.
Connecting the CCU
1 Route the connector end of the CCU cable to the ECU and make the connection.
NOTICE
You should apply dielectric grease to the pin holes on the cable connector to prevent corrosion, especially if
you are using the autopilot system in saltwater.
2 Route the orange and blue wires from the bare-wire portion of the CCU cable to the location where you plan
to install the alarm (
).
If the cable is not long enough, extend the appropriate wires with 28 AWG (0.08 mm
2
) wire.
3 Route the brown and black wires from the bare-wire portion of the CCU cable to the location where you plan
to install the Shadow Drive sensor (
Installing the Shadow Drive Sensor, page 15
) (optional).
If the cable is not long enough, extend the appropriate wires with 28 AWG (0.08 mm
2
) wire.
If you do not plan to install the Shadow Drive sensor, cut and tape the brown and black wires.
Installing the Shadow Drive Sensor
NOTE: The Shadow Drive sensor is an optional accessory that can be used only on a boat with a hydraulic
steering system.
Connecting the Shadow Drive Sensor to the Hydraulic System
Before you can install the Shadow Drive sensor, you must select a location at which to connect the Shadow
Drive sensor to the hydraulic steering of your boat (
Shadow Drive Sensor Mounting Considerations, page 7
).
Use hydraulic connectors (not included) to install the Shadow Drive sensor in the appropriate hydraulic line.
15
