GPS mounting help.

[Saltfly]

Hey Folks - new boat owner here. I just picked up a 1994 Escape 20. I’m installing a Garmin gps and was thinking of mounting it on top of the console and running the wiring through a cable clam into the console. Any issues with this? I also know that some people use RAM mounts instead of directly mounting the bail to the top of the console. I like the idea of the RAM mount’s small footprint and swivel but concerned that the mount is too long for the space. Also is the chassis ground on the gps required? If so where do I ground it? Thanks!

 

[Sardinia306Canyon]

was thinking of mounting it on top of the console and running the wiring through a cable clam into the console. Any issues with this?

No, just works fine except that the device is exposed.

Also is the chassis ground on the gps required? If so where do I ground it?

The chassis ground can be needed if you have interference on the fish finder if you have one.
In case you need it, you ground it on a negative cable going to the negative battery pole.

Chris

 

[Saltfly]

Thanks for confirming!

 

[Sardinia306Canyon]

I forgot to write:
You should build a sunshade above the device for protection and to reduce reflection from sunlight.
You can pull the device easily when on a gimbal mount, that is a safety benefit, protect the plugs if non connected with a plastic bag and every now and then a light spray of CRC Marine or similar. Dielectric grease will work to but tend to build up and make a mess.
Should you take the dievice away and invest in a foam filled Pelicase or cheaper copy for transport, your device would tell you thank you if it could.

I had this for many, many years and it worked very well.

Chris

 

[Saltfly]

Thanks for the advice.I appreciate the help.

 

[Saltfly]

I forgot to write:
You should build a sunshade above the device for protection and to reduce reflection from sunlight.
You can pull the device easily when on a gimbal mount, that is a safety benefit, protect the plugs if non connected with a plastic bag and every now and then a light spray of CRC Marine or similar. Dielectric grease will work to but tend to build up and make a mess.
Should you take the dievice away and invest in a foam filled Pelicase or cheaper copy for transport, your device would tell you thank you if it could.

I had this for many, many years and it worked very well.

Chris

 

[Saltfly]

Any thoughts on directly bolting the bail to top on console vs a RAM mount? Direct mounts seems clean and secure but the there is no left to right swivel in my bail. RAM offer flexibility but not sure I like the idea of the rubber balls and clamps holding the unit.

 

[TMANN]

Ram mount is the way to go unless the graph needs to be low. Make a spacer to bring the cables thru under the mount. Looks clean and you have adjustment. They hold solid if you buy the right size. I had two 9" screens mounted on one for years.

 

[Saltfly]

Ram mount is the way to go unless the graph needs to be low. Make a spacer to bring the cables thru under the mount. Looks clean and you have adjustment. They hold solid if you buy the right size. I had two 9" screens mounted on one for years.

Thanks, TMann. I bought a 10” garmin which the ram should support but my biggest concern is the extension on Ram I think it might be too much ergonomically speaking. I guess I’ll have to get one and test fit