Octopus 12" Stroke Mounted 38mm Linear Drive 12V - Up To 60' or 33,000lbs - OCTAF1212LAM12

Octopus 12" Stroke Mounted 38mm Linear Drive - 12V (OCTAF1212LAM12)

The Octopus 12" Stroke Mounted 38mm Linear Drive OCTAF1212LAM12 is a heavy-duty, self-contained hydraulic linear drive designed for high-performance autopilot systems. This "Mounted" version is engineered for yachts up to 60 feet in length or vessels with a displacement of up to 33,000 lbs. Unlike remote systems, the "M" series features the hydraulic pump mounted directly onto the cylinder, creating a compact, robust, and easy-to-install unit that acts as a powerful "third hand" for your steering system.

All-In-One Hydraulic Power

The Mounted design is the industry standard for cruisers and offshore sailors who want the power of hydraulics without the complexity of routing high-pressure hoses through the boat. By integrating the pump and the cylinder into a single assembly, the OCTAF1212LAM12 reduces potential leak points and simplifies the mechanical footprint in the lazarette. With 1,200 lbs of thrust, this drive can handle the immense rudder loads generated by heavy following seas or high-speed sailing.

Key Features:

• Integrated Design: The hydraulic pump is mounted directly to the cylinder, eliminating the need for external hydraulic hoses and simplifying installation.

• 1,200 lbs Thrust: Provides massive steering force, capable of controlling large rudders on heavy-displacement offshore vessels.

• 12" Stroke Length: Offers ample travel for standard quadrant and tiller arm geometries on boats up to 60 feet.

• Precision Steering: Hydraulic operation offers a smoother, more responsive feel than mechanical screw drives, leading to better autopilot course-keeping and reduced battery drain.

• Low Back-Drive Resistance: Features a specialized clutch/bypass system that allows for a natural feel at the helm when the autopilot is disengaged.

• Professional Grade Construction: Built with a chrome-plated stainless steel piston rod and a rugged mounting foot to withstand years of saltwater exposure.

• Adjustable Flow Rate: The integrated pump allows for fine-tuning of the hard-over time to perfectly match your autopilot computer's software requirements.

Technical Specifications:

• Model Number: OCTAF1212LAM12

• Voltage: 12V DC

• Stroke: 12" (305 mm)

• Bore Size: 38 mm

• Max Thrust: 1,200 lbs (545 kg)

• Vessel Size: Up to 60' (18m)

• Vessel Displacement: Up to 33,000 lbs (15,000 kg)

• Peak Current: ~19-24 Amps

• Drive Type: Mounted Hydraulic (Self-Contained)

Why Choose the Octopus Mounted Linear Drive?

The Octopus 12" Stroke Mounted 38mm Linear Drive OCTAF1212LAM12 is the premium choice for boat owners who value reliability and simplicity. Because it is a self-contained unit, the installation is purely mechanical and electrical—no hydraulic bleeding is required during setup. It is widely considered one of the most powerful and dependable drives for mid-to-large sized blue-water cruisers.

Installation Pro-Tip:

This drive generates significant force; ensure the mounting point on the hull is reinforced with a heavy-duty backing plate (aluminum or G10). Additionally, always use a high-quality tiller pin or a heavy-duty quadrant bolt to connect the rod end to your steering system, as this is the point of highest mechanical stress.