I have a new cockpit version (1985) and an autohelm 2000. The pin is about 10 inches from the pintles. The butt end of the pilot mounts on a teak block bolted to the top of the transom on the port side just about 3-4" outboard of the port scupper vent, so the autopilot shaft works the tiller at a slight angle when the rudder is centered. Access was easy to the wiring through the big locker in the cockpit. The pilot power outlet and electronic compass mount aft and below the locker compartment hatch - keeping it from being kicked accidentally as much as possible.
I've never tried it out in in real heavy stuff, but had it going close-hauled under power and mainsail in 15-20 knots and some chop and it worked just fine.
FYI, I didn't install it, it came this way with the boat.
