Garmin Class B Compact v2 Drive Unit

The Garmin Class B Compact v2 Drive Unit is a self-contained hydraulic linear actuator for compatible mechanically steered sailboats and displacement vessels. It connects to an independent tiller arm or steering quadrant through a pivot and clevis linkage, combining the hydraulic pump and ram in one compact assembly. This is a drive-only component and requires a compatible Garmin Reactor 40 Mechanical autopilot system, high-current ECU, control display or chartplotter, heading sensor, power circuit, and correctly engineered steering linkage.

The 12V drive provides a 250 mm linear stroke and up to 500 kg, or 1,100 lb, peak thrust. It can draw up to 15A under maximum load and is intended for vessels up to 13,000 kg, or 28,500 lb, displacement. The compact integrated design eliminates external hydraulic hoses between the pump and ram, but it still requires a rigid mounting foundation, correct steering geometry, and full manual-rudder travel.

System Integration

This is not a complete autopilot system. It requires a Garmin Reactor 40 Mechanical corepack or other Garmin-approved high-current system configured for the correct drive class, plus a compatible control display or chartplotter, heading sensor, power circuit, and feedback arrangement where required. Do not connect it to a low-current autopilot computer or wheel-drive controller.

Match the drive to actual vessel displacement, rudder torque, steering-arm radius, stroke requirement, maximum drive current, and manual-steering arrangement. A physical rudder-feedback sensor may be required depending on the selected Reactor 40 configuration and vessel steering system.

Before Ordering

Confirm vessel displacement up to 28,500 lb, compatible mechanical steering, an independent tiller arm or steering quadrant, sufficient 250 mm stroke clearance, structural mounting strength, Garmin Reactor 40 Mechanical compatibility, approved drive-class configuration, 12V supply, 15A circuit capacity, feedback requirement, manual-steering access, and complete autopilot-system components before purchase.