John: I have no experience with the new Sport Pilot so I can't comment on it although your right about the older model's. Over the years I've installed many of the older models & they did have there share of problems but Raymarine did have a fairly decent & knowledgeable support team. On the same note. I've installed my share of Simrad's as well with very few problem's except for one unit that you have probably read about on here. They are a very good unit but if you do have any issues at least for the time being DON'T expect any kind of knowledgeable or for that matter customer courtesy from them. I hope they get there act together after the buy out and merger by Navico before they give a good product a bad reputation because of it.
Teleflex QC II style replacement cable for rotary helm is what you'll need. As far as adapter & Morris style bezel kit it SHOULD come with the unit. Keep your fingers crossed.
For as good of a unit as they are. Without going into detail. There customer service is about the worst I've seen over all the years in this business.
Thank you for the general kind words regarding marine mechanics. Those words of wisdom might fit a few in the trade. But by far not the majority . Kind of like teachers I had in school.