Specifying the gyro before the hull is built is the only way to get it right. Here's how independent engineers size, place, and integrate a gyro into a new vessel — without manufacturer bias.
Before choosing a model, we model the hull's natural roll period, center of gravity, and metacentric height. Every hull form behaves differently. A deep-V planing hull needs different gyro characteristics than a semi-displacement hull. We use naval architecture software and empirical data from similar vessels.
We classify your vessel by total continuous electrical load: gyro + interceptors + house systems + autopilot. This determines power system architecture. Most new builds underestimate by 30-40%. HLMCS framework →
The gyro is not an accessory — it's a primary load. We calculate: continuous draw at operating RPM, peak draw during spin-up, recharge rate from alternators, battery chemistry (lithium vs AGM), and whether a dedicated gyro bus is required. 24V power guide →
The foundation must be engineered into the hull structure, not bolted on after. We specify: mounting location (lowest CG possible), frame design (box frame vs. bracket), welding schedule, and gelcoat/insulation integration. This is done before the hull is laid up.
How does the gyro interact with interceptors, autopilot, and trim tabs? We design the control architecture: which system has priority, how they share sensor data, and what happens when one system fails. This prevents the common "systems fighting each other" problem.
These are approximate ranges for planning purposes. Actual specification requires hull-specific analysis. We do not receive commissions or referral fees from any manufacturer.
~18-25ft vessels | 700-1,200 lbs displacement
2,000-3,500 lbs boat ~40A continuous~30-45ft vessels | 3,000-8,000 lbs displacement
6,000-14,000 lbs boat ~50-65A continuous~45-60ft vessels | 8,000-15,000 lbs displacement
14,000-25,000 lbs boat ~70-90A continuous~55-70ft vessels | 15,000-25,000 lbs displacement
25,000-40,000 lbs boat ~100-140A continuous~65-90ft+ vessels | 25,000-50,000+ lbs displacement
40,000+ lbs boat ~160-220A continuousBuilders spec the gyro based on package deals or familiarity, not hull analysis. We've seen SK6 units on 50' vessels that needed SK9s. The owner lives with subpar stabilization for years.
Retrofitting a foundation into a finished hull is 3x more expensive and structurally inferior. The foundation must be part of the hull engineering from day one.
Standard practice: size batteries and alternators for house loads, then "add" the gyro later. Result: voltage sag, reduced performance, shortened battery life. The gyro is a primary load, not an accessory.
Many new builds install both gyro and interceptors but never design how they interact. The result: systems fight each other, reduced effectiveness, or one system dominating the other. We specify the control priority and handoff logic before installation.