I just installed a navigo tp300(this is the autopilots 3rd boat) on Jezabelle and navigo I thought recommended 12 inches from the pintles. On my 1979 J-30 the lazarette on the starboard side limits positioning the pin more than about eight inches from the pintles.(I thought simrad bought out navigo a few years ago).
I have only tried it out up to 11 knots of apparent wind and it worked flawlessly. I even tried the tack button which is "interesting". Having the pilot this close to the pintle allows the pilot to be very effective at 'hard to lee" and allows me to open the lazarette to start the engine.
