GPS mounting location?

[cshontz]

I'm planning on mounting my GPS in this approximate location using RAM mounting hardware. Can anyone provide suggestions for a sturdy, permanent, clean, minimally-invasive mounting location in this part of the dash? I'll probably require a custom bracket.

http://static.flickr.com/88/222992466_0c924e85b2.jpg

How does one remove the left-hand vent in this picture? I wonder if it just pops out. I expect that vent to be partially obscured. Perhaps I could remove it to gain access to a potentially good mounting surface.

[FitchVA]

here's where i mounted my eTrex Legend Cx...

http://viewsfrommylens.com/Gallery/albums/album68/IMG_1128.jpg

i'm using the Marine Mount to mount it to the top part of the dash.

http://viewsfrommylens.com/Gallery/albums/album68/MarineMount.jpg

but because the material that is used on the top of the dash doesn't seem like it's too sturdy, i figured i'd make a backing plate to fit under the dash so the screws/bolts wouldn't pull through.

so to test the location to make sure it was right, i temporarily used some industrial strength velcro. well, i haven't gotten around to making that backing plate them taking the dash off to install it, so i've still been using the velcro. and it's held up really well. even in the hot summer and bouncy trails

[casm]

I've been doing something similar involving the marine mount and an eTrex Legend for a while now, only with it mounted between the A-pillar and instrument binnacle:

http://www.supermotors.net/getfile/182765/fullsize/05---etrex_closeup.jpg

Power's run to the combination lighter adapter / serial cable behind the dash, with the serial plug exiting under the centre console on the passenger's side. Works great: no problems with reception, and I can pull it out pretty easily to take it with me for geocaching, etc. More photos of the install can be found here (http://www.supermotors.net/vehicles/registry/7625/23511).

[thebrick]

Hey thanks guys...I just got a Garmin Vista Cx not too long ago...was wondering how I could mount a holder in my XJ...now I know.

thanks.

[langer1]

I don't need one, I never get lost.
I have been bewildered for days at a time though.

[FitchVA]

I've been doing something similar involving the marine mount and an eTrex Legend for a while now, only with it mounted between the A-pillar and instrument binnacle:

http://www.supermotors.net/getfile/182765/fullsize/05---etrex_closeup.jpg

Power's run to the combination lighter adapter / serial cable behind the dash, with the serial plug exiting under the centre console on the passenger's side. Works great: no problems with reception, and I can pull it out pretty easily to take it with me for geocaching, etc. More photos of the install can be found here (http://www.supermotors.net/vehicles/registry/7625/23511).
i was originally gonna mount mine there because i saw your picture before. but i thought twice about it when i remembered that i seem to have issues remembering to roll up my window when going through mud :D you can kinda see it in my pictures...that side is pretty well hit with mud spatter ;)

[casm]

i was originally gonna mount mine there because i saw your picture before. but i thought twice about it when i remembered that i seem to have issues remembering to roll up my window when going through mud :D you can kinda see it in my pictures...that side is pretty well hit with mud spatter ;)

Heh, it probably wouldn't've mattered - that Legend shown in the photo survived four days underwater before I retrieved it from the flooded Jeep. Worked fine after changing out the batteries; I now tell people it was actually made by Timex ;) I like the approach you took with it, though. Only reason I ended up not putting it there is that I've got switches that're going to (eventually) end up in that blank between the instrument cluster and air vents, and didn't want to block access to them.

How do you like the Cx? I've been toying with the idea of an upgrade for a while now, but haven't really had a chance to play with one yet. Is the display readable in sunlight?

[pSYChedXJ]

Are you guys running one of these to power it??

http://shop.garmin.com/graphics/010-10203-00.jpg

I hate exposed wire and plugging stuff in to cigarette lighter/power outlet; wondering if I can just permanently wire it in.

-Jay

[BrettM]

you guys make me feel sad with just my bottom-of-the-line eTrex... oh well, does what I need it to, and is one of the few Christmas presents I actually still use 6 months later.

http://www.uca.edu.sv/deptos/tps/laboratorios/garmin-etrex.jpg

[casm]

Are you guys running one of these to power it??

Pretty close... I'm using this one (click here (http://shop.garmin.com/accessory.jsp?sku=010%2D10268%2D00) for product page):

http://shop.garmin.com/graphics/010-10268-00.jpg

It's basically the same thing, but also provides serial output so I can hook the laptop up to it while driving.

I hate exposed wire and plugging stuff in to cigarette lighter/power outlet; wondering if I can just permanently wire it in.

Same here. What I did was to get a lighter extension cable from Radio Shack, cut off the end that normally plugs into the lighter, then hide that behind the centre bezel (it all tucks in between the radio & heater switches), spliced in to the lighter wiring. I then plugged the Garmin adapter into it, and ran its wiring up through the dash and to the location where the mount is now; the serial cable pops out just in front of the forward edge of the centre console on the passenger side. Everything's hidden out of sight and seems to work fine.

[GreenbeltXJ]

i have that too but i think it gets in the way when your not using it, i was going to cut one and try to hard wire it to the cigarette lighter.

[pSYChedXJ]

Same here. What I did was to get a lighter extension cable from Radio Shack, cut off the end that normally plugs into the lighter, then hide that behind the centre bezel (it all tucks in between the radio & heater switches), spliced in to the lighter wiring. I then plugged the Garmin adapter into it, and ran its wiring up through the dash and to the location where the mount is now; the serial cable pops out just in front of the forward edge of the centre console on the passenger side. Everything's hidden out of sight and seems to work fine.

Awesome. Good call on the combo-cord too, just in case I want to upload maps/waypoints/etc. Thanks!

-Jay

[xjtrailrider]

I've got my GPS 315 and my FineDrive 400 nav system both mounted in the same place as FitchVA, sorry I don't have a pic. I made my own mounting brackets.

[GreenbeltXJ]

[/QOUTE]Same here. What I did was to get a lighter extension cable from Radio Shack, cut off the end that normally plugs into the lighter, then hide that behind the centre bezel (it all tucks in between the radio & heater switches), spliced in to the lighter wiring. I then plugged the Garmin adapter into it, and ran its wiring up through the dash and to the location where the mount is now; the serial cable pops out just in front of the forward edge of the centre console on the passenger side. Everything's hidden out of sight and seems to work fine.[/QUOTE]



shoulda read the whole thread....

[casm]

Awesome. Good call on the combo-cord too, just in case I want to upload maps/waypoints/etc. Thanks!

No problem :) One thing I will mention about this setup, though: make sure you get it right the first time, because you don't want to have to tear the dash apart again if you don't - especially the part that houses the demister vents, which is a PITA to get back in properly if it feels like being difficult. Ask me how I know ;)

[Bridgman]

http://i80.photobucket.com/albums/j163/bigredishness/1026821_5_full.jpg

this isnt permanent buy any means, but it's what i got. it was simple and cost $10
by the way this is my first reply

[FitchVA]

How do you like the Cx? I've been toying with the idea of an upgrade for a while now, but haven't really had a chance to play with one yet. Is the display readable in sunlight?
i love the cx. the display is really nice. good color and resolution. in the sunlight outside holding it, reading the display is pretty good. but in the jeep, i cut the contrast/brightness all the way up so it's easier to read quickly so i don't take my eyes off the road a lot. but running on just batteries really eats up the batteries when you hike the brightness all the way up.

but i'm 100% pleased with it. gotta love color display and removable/expandable memory.

[cshontz]

Anyone got a Garmin 276C or similar? I'd like to see how you have that particular unit mounted in a 97+. Here's a picture I found of someone else's setup, but I want mine to be more in my line-of-sight.

http://www.expeditionportal.com/forum/attachment.php?attachmentid=2973&d=1156288984

I think I might've figured something out. The bad thing - I lose some vent functionality. The good thing - I should be able to put the GPS exactly where I want it, and in a reversible manner.

http://static.flickr.com/67/223118344_d15f6ec841.jpg

[GreenbeltXJ]

i got the swivle mount, the guys at sportsmans warehouse thought i was crazy for mounting it in my jeep. i wasn't going to pay $40 bucks for the real vehicle mount. this was $15

http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f39/fzabolla/gps.jpg

[azdesertrhino]

Pretty close... I'm using this one (click here (http://shop.garmin.com/accessory.jsp?sku=010%2D10268%2D00) for product page):

http://shop.garmin.com/graphics/010-10268-00.jpg

It's basically the same thing, but also provides serial output so I can hook the laptop up to it while driving.


I had the same set up in my rig, plus had my computer plugged in and my Lilliput screen. It was a PITA out on the trail. I recently hard wired all 3 with some fuses and auxillary switches. Worked out real well.

[PolishX]

Now i wonder how I am gonna mount my Garmin 76 CS ... my explorist was small and easy

[cshontz]

Here is what I ended up doing. I'm infinitely pleased with this setup, despite the loss of the vent.

http://static.flickr.com/84/231512021_ba68b0c7d2.jpg

http://www.flickr.com/photos/cshontz/tags/gpsmount/

[PolishX]

only 1 person has a big GPS so far .. I have the Garmin 76CS and am looking for options .. I might do the vent removal thing . but I am in alaska and would like to keep my vent

[BrettM]

Here is what I ended up doing. I'm infinitely pleased with this setup, despite the loss of the vent.

http://static.flickr.com/84/231512021_ba68b0c7d2.jpg

http://www.flickr.com/photos/cshontz/tags/gpsmount/
do you seriously have 8691 pictures online??

[Jeepin Jason]

I've got my eMap mounted in a similar location as Fitch's setup. I'm using the Garmin auto mount though.

http://jeepin.com/miscweb_album/images/DSC00420.jpg

We use a Garmin StreetPilot 2600 in the Dodge and just use the beanbag mount it came with. Works very well that way around town, but it wouldn't stay put very long in an offroad situation.

[misterjeeper]

I mounted my garmin vista c just above the stereo. drilled a couple of small holes, filled em with jb weld, screwed the mounting bracket into THAT, and its been good for a year now. Friggin bulletproof, and looks good, as well.

[w_howey]

I Used a cell phone mount that snaps to the vent. It holds my E-trex Legend just at the right angle when I am driving. My GPS 38 was too large for this holder though.

Anyone know where I can find a USB-serial convertor? My new laptop doesn't have a serial port. But I have 4 USB ports.

[PolishX]

noone has anything new for GPS moutning ?

[BlueGerbil]

Garmin GPSMAP 276c (soon to be replaced by 278c) on a Garmin marine mount.

http://www.liska.de/bilder/garmin276_1.jpg

[PolishX]

yeah I have looked at alot , mounting on the dah ughh... but if i have to drill i guess i have to drill . I like the one mounted next to the gauges on the right ... Mine is a Garmin GPSMAP 76 CS so its sorta tall

[xjtrailrider]

I made my own mount from some aluminum sheet that I hade and attached to the underside of the guage bezil. The mount holds my GPS and my Nav system. Here is a really bad pic of the setup.

http://img253.imageshack.us/img253/8906/gpsmb5.jpg

[PolishX]

well I checked my Garmin 76CS and it wont fit on the dash it hits the glass and no space next to the vents for it to fit ... freaking wonderfull

[PolishX]

btt any help on post 96 dashs

[gjxj]

one thing may help, the 76 is a strong enought reciever that you dont really need to have it up in the window. If there is a lower spot that works try it.
(I have a 96, mounted just like Jason above). I think the 76 can run an exteral antenna if you really cant get a signal in the spot you want to put it.

[rokclimbertx]

the RAM suction cup/short arm and cradle i used with my 60c was rock solid... and if you're worried about not having room for the larger units to fit on top of the dash this setup allows it to hang over... i'd offer up a photo but the cradle cracked from constant inserting & removing the unit from from it...

here's a site with some RAM mount setups w/photos... hope it helps...

http://www.gpscentral.ca/accessories/ram-mounts_60c.htm

[PolishX]

I found one last night that is 7" tall and fits inthe cup holder with remote antena I should be ok i think ,,, i'll post up pics when I am done with it

[PolishX]

BTT anymore help / suggestions xjtrailrider can you post up some pics of your mounting

[outlander]

wow you've been trying to get your gps mounted since august 27?

You may have bigger problems than getting lost.....

[cshontz]

I'm still very happy with this. I find that I don't miss the vent at all.

http://static.flickr.com/80/231511235_d5bcea2140.jpg

[PolishX]

wow you've been trying to get your gps mounted since august 27?

You may have bigger problems than getting lost.....


funny , how bout i'm in alaska it's 30 below and I dont really feel like wheeling a whole lot ... i've been having it ride around laying on the dash or the cupholder BUT when i hit trails in the spring , things just laying around tend to not stay in 1 place ...

[xjwest]

any pics of 96 and older to mount gps to dash including hardware shots

[cshontz]

An updated picture with my new GPS.

http://static.flickr.com/113/310835184_5b4c5d83e4_b.jpg

[jeepsrock]

On a side note those of you with the etrex vista and legend, does that thing do driving direction from an address ? I am thinking about getting one soon as i like its size and price , does it talk (ie turn left) ?

Any advice for other models to look for in the 250$ price range ? something i can use in the car and possibly take out of the car once in a while.

Thanks
Pete

[FitchVA]

On a side note those of you with the etrex vista and legend, does that thing do driving direction from an address ? I am thinking about getting one soon as i like its size and price , does it talk (ie turn left) ?

Any advice for other models to look for in the 250$ price range ? something i can use in the car and possibly take out of the car once in a while.

Thanks
Pete
eTrex Legend Cx info : http://www.garmin.com/products/etrexLegendcx/

[tkjeeper]

You guys and all your fancy NEW xj's!! I just got my mount for my Explorist 500, windshield mount solid as a rock and right where I want it, I'll post a pic when I have a minute. It's in my '93 HO.

[red_01_xj]

i have mine on an L bracket in that is weged into the vent... the gps is secured by the belt clip

[jeepsrock]

Well actually guys i got a gpsmap 60cx for Christmas, so i didnt need to buy one. I have already purchased maps aswell as a larger memory card for it.
My next purchase is for a mount ? I am a bit confused of which mount will be more useful for my Cherokee. Garmin offers the auto, marine and windshield style mounts ? As to what the actual mounting differences, i have no idea ? Anyone know ; adhesive ? suction cup ? screws ?

Also anyone have a model 60c mounted in there Cherokee, maybe i can get some pics to give me an idea ?

Thanks guys as usual.
pete

[casm]

Garmin offers the auto, marine and windshield style mounts ? As to what the actual mounting differences, i have no idea ? Anyone know ; adhesive ? suction cup ? screws ?

Auto mount: adhesive.
Marine mount: screws.
Windshield mount: suction cup.

Also anyone have a model 60c mounted in there Cherokee, maybe i can get some pics to give me an idea ?

I did exactly the same thing with my 60CSX as with the Legend it replaced:

http://www.supermotors.net/getfile/471686/original/60csx.jpg

Exact same location as I used for the Legend, and works great. Photos of how the Legend was installed are here (http://www.supermotors.net/vehicles/registry/7625/23511); everything was installed in exactly the same way as for the new unit. FWIW, I used the marine mount.

[PolishX]

I actually got a smoking deal on a Garmin Quest with the windshield mount couldnt pass it up for under 200 . so now I have 2 GPS's LOL .. .and one is a windshield mount and both are color

[xjtrailrider]

I mounted my GPS/Nav system combo onto the underside of the gauge bezil.

Not a good pic but here it is.

http://img253.imageshack.us/img253/8906/gpsmb5.jpg

[PolishX]

what kind is that ? the screen etc

[xjtrailrider]

The nav system is a FineDrive 400 and the GPS is a Magellan 315. I use the gps unit off road to mark turns and get co-ords etc. The nav works well just getting me un-lost and I can move it to any of my other 3 XJ's when I'm in them.

[PolishX]

i was looking at it , doesnt have alaska or topo capabilty so i cant use it

[casm]

Slight update to the marine mount situation:

I've noticed that there's a tendency for a lot more vibration to be passed to the unit compared to when the Legend was in the same place; I'm attributing this to the 60csx' greater weight on exactly the same armature as the Legend used. It's really annoying since you have to reach over to hold it steady while looking at it.

Right now I'm working on cancelling some of this out. Picked up a couple of 9/32"x5/32"x1/16" faucet washers (O-rings, actually) to put on the adjusters for the armature, and grabbed three 5/16"x3/16"x1/16" O-rings for the mounting screws. I'm also looking into some sort of O-ring and flat washer arrangement for the lockdown knob in the base, but all of this is sidelined for a couple of days until the power & data cable gets here - no sense in tearing the dash apart twice if it can be avoided.

FWIW, I have a suspicion that the Garmin mounts for the handhelds all use the same armature from model to model; it's just the part that holds the receiver to the armature that changes. On the Legend the mount came with a replacement battery door that incorporated the latch; on the 60csx it was more of a cradle arrangement that looped over the belt clip attachement and snapped into a hole on the base. In both cases the armature and latch design were exactly the same - everything between them was interchangeable, and either unit could be snapped into and out of either latch.

[xjtrailrider]

i was looking at it , doesnt have alaska or topo capabilty so i cant use it

Your right, no topo, and I havn't been lucky enough to go to Alaska...yet.

I forgot to add that my mount is made from sheet aluminum that you can buy in any hardware/home improvement store. It is attached in several places to the under side of the gauge bezil.

[jeepsrock]

I was thinking about the windshield mount for my GPS but after talking to a few folks they said after a few hours of driving the suction tends to die out resulting in the unit falling ? Is this true ?

With the automotive mount - will it it stick to the older cherokees ( 94) somewhat textured dash ?

Thanks
pete

[PolishX]

i have been trying one for 3 days on mine withthe garmin quest i got and yes it fails , cold window and defrost on makes it fall off . so i ordered a vent clip holder

[rokclimbertx]

you guys need the RAM Mount... 4" suction cup has been stuck to my windshield for years, rock solid... they have cradles for every model and usually a package deal on cup, arm & cradle for like $40... here's the website where i got mine years ago... i'm using the 3" arm i think but if i were doing it again i'd go for the 5.25" just to set it up a bit lower... advice, don't take ur GPSr in & out of the cradle, especially a garmin 60 model, i cracked the cradle doing that too much...

http://www.gpscity.com/ram-garmin-mounts.htm

example of what to look for... (4" cup, arm, cradle)
http://www.gpscity.com/item-ram-mount-ram-b-148-ga14/ramb148ga14.htm


good luck

[Jim Mesthene]

Although people are rarely cited for it, anything mounted in such a way as to obstruct the view through the windshield is a citeable offense.
Why put it in a place that gives any officer an excuse to stop you?

[Jeepin Jason]

Guess it depends on how bad the cops are in your area. Down here folks have all manner of things attached at the base of their windshield... GPS, those notepad things, cell phone holders, you name it. Depending on the vehicle's design, and where you mount it, the only 'view' it would be obstructing would be of the hood...

As far as sticking a mount to the top of the dash in an XJ, that's how I have my Garmin mount setup. At first I tried their 'removeable' sticky pad, but it amounted to just a thin layer of sticky-tac (remember that stuff from our school days?) which lasted just an afternoon here in the TX heat. I finally used their 'permanent' adhesive pad and it's been stuck there ever since. I have not tried to remove it (had no reason to). Pic on page 2.

[jeepsrock]

Hey Jeepin Jason, i noticed you are using the garmin auto mount with your unit does it bounce around , while driving ? How permanent is the mount, can i remove it later on if i decide i would rather it be somewhere else ?

thanks pete

[PolishX]

i dont think i like the ram mounts . too dam confusing with ball and mount and this part and that .

[Jim Mesthene]

Guess it depends on how bad the cops are in your area. Down here folks have all manner of things attached at the base of their windshield... GPS, those notepad things, cell phone holders, you name it.
...and after the accident, the other guy's insurance company will point out that you had obstructed vision. I've seen it happen.