Octopus Sailboat Drive – Inboard System – 12" Stroke (Up to 38' / 15,400 lbs) – Model OCTAFMDRSSYS12

The Octopus Sailboat Drive Inboard System – 12" Stroke (Model OCTAFMDRSSYS12) is a high-performance marine autopilot drive system engineered for sailboats up to 38 feet in length or 15,400 lbs displacement. With its long 12-inch stroke, this inboard drive delivers smooth, powerful steering response and dependable autopilot control for coastal cruising and offshore passages.

Built with marine-grade, corrosion-resistant materials, the Octopus inboard drive system offers durability and long service life in challenging saltwater environments. Designed for seamless integration with compatible autopilot electronics and hydraulic steering components, this system enhances course-keeping accuracy, reduces helm fatigue, and provides reliable steering performance in varied sea conditions.

The inboard mounting design optimizes installation space below decks and ensures efficient steering linkages for hydraulic or mechanical steering systems. Whether you’re upgrading an existing autopilot or installing a new system, this sailboat drive delivers trusted Octopus engineering and proven performance.

Key Features:

• Stroke Length: 12 inches

• Suitable for Sailboats: Up to 38 ft or 15,400 lbs displacement

• Inboard drive design for efficient installation

• Smooth, powerful autopilot steering

• Marine-grade, corrosion-resistant construction

• Compatible with hydraulic and mechanical steering setups

• Model: OCTAFMDRSSYS12

Applications:

• Sailboat autopilot steering systems

• Hydraulic and mechanical steering installations

• Cruise-ready vessels and offshore sailboats

• Autopilot upgrades and new installations

Choose the Octopus Sailboat Drive – Inboard System – 12" Stroke (OCTAFMDRSSYS12) for responsive autopilot steering, rugged marine performance, and reliable Octopus quality tailored for mid-sized sailboats.

Why Choose the OCTAFMDRSSYS12?

The OCTAFMDRSSYS12 is the perfect upgrade for sailors who find the standard 8" stroke (OCTAFMDRSSYS8) too restrictive for their specific rudder quadrant. It offers the same quiet, reliable, and energy-efficient performance but with the mechanical travel necessary for complex or high-leverage steering systems. It is an ideal, low-cost alternative to converting a cable-steered boat to hydraulics just to add an autopilot.

Installation Pro-Tip:

When mounting the connection kit to your quadrant, ensure the steering cable is perpendicular (90°) to the tiller arm or quadrant when the rudder is at its mid-stroke position. This geometry ensures that the autopilot applies equal force in both directions and prevents "side-loading" the cable, which can lead to premature wear and friction.