Skip to main content

Connecting the Actuator to the Base

You can quickly connect the SmartDrive™ actuator to the base using no tools, and quickly remove it if needed for service.

  1. With the base firmly secured to the mounting surface, place the SmartDrive actuator 1 over the pivot joint on the base 2.

    Connecting the drive unit to the base with callouts.
  2. Apply general purpose marine grease to the pivot pin 3, and insert it through the actuator and the pivot joint to secure the actuator to the base.
  3. Insert the R-pin 4 through the hole in the end of the pivot pin to secure it.
    NOTE: Two R-pins are provided with the SmartDrive actuator. You should install the R-pin without the red tag when securing the pivot pin. The R-pin with the red tag is intended to be installed on the tiller pin that connects the actuator to the tiller.
If you need to disconnect the actuator from the base for service, remove the R-pin and the pivot pin.
NOTICE

If you must disconnect the SmartDrive actuator from the tiller in case of an emergency such as an unresponsive actuator, you should remove the R-pin with the red flag from the tiller pin and disconnect the actuator from the tiller pin instead of disconnecting it from the base. By removing the actuator from the tiller pin, you can quickly regain manual control of steering. If you leave the actuator connected to the tiller pin and disconnect it from the base instead, it can inhibit movement of the tiller arm and cause damage to the vessel or device.

GUID-F8A3AF4C-44EB-477D-BF2E-2FE74EFB7B13 v2
October 2026
© 2026 Garmin Ltd.