RAM Mount Failed

[canman]

Back in March I picked up a Garmin 60CSX and mounted it to the windshield of my truck using a short RAM mount. Right from the start I noticed what I thought was too much movement. About two months ago, I took it down to relocate it at which time I noticed that the rubber coating on both of the balls was badly cracked. Also, one of the screws used to secure the ball section to the suction cup had stripped. RAM replaced everything promptly and they were fantastic to deal with. However, I have now relocated the Garmin so that it rests on the dash (put some foam in between) to keep it from bouncing around. I do live out in the country, and have to navigate over some rough roads, so I was just wondering if anyone else had a similar issue?

 

[D'Animal]

I have tried several other brands but RAM is still the best for my applications.

The suction cups do not last long in the heat and constant UV rays in central california.

I have actually broken the arms that grab the ball trying to tighten it so it does not move so much.

I have the Ram mounts in several of my vehicles. some are the bolt on Ball and other the suction cup. Cabelas has the largest selection I have seen of the differnt mounts.

 

[Tapage]

IMOP they are the best you can found those days .. are not perfect .. but I did't found any better .. I use bottle holder and I make it rest in the dash .. ( but handle the full can of soda or full bottle pretty decent )

Also have one to hold my 276C and do a decent job too ..

 

[Genesis4X4]

All - You might want to consider the dash if UV and heavy vibration is an issue. Please check out the link below and take a look at the "Dash Base" option. My GPS works fine in that spot, but I prefer it on the windshield.

Mobile Device Mounting Systems

Dave ( aka cruiserloser)

 

[esh]

I have used a lot of RAM stuff over the years and no breakage yet, though I sympathize with cranking down the arms and what can potentially happen.

Consider something like this if you have the time and inclination. It is a Harbor Freight bent piece of Sch40 pipe, continuous bends that follow the entire dash contour and routes down to plates that bolt into the dash attachment.

Keeps from having to use floor mounts (in the way) and off the window (not legal in CA anyways), plus a near infinite amount of adjustability across the dash. I'm making up one for the 40 between the roll cage A pillars to accomodate a built-in grab bar and not get in the way of the dash box.

 

[canman]

Funny that you should post that, as I had thought of something similar using aluminum and mtg it to the A pillars...

 

[davegonz]

I haven't had any problems with the balls cracking even in our crazy summer (record 100*F+ days). I have the one in the 40 hard mounted.

 

[esh]

Another perspective of the gadget bar. I hang a lot of crap from it depending on what I am doing. Added a tripod screw mount for my SLR to take video most recently.

Still need to redo one without kinks. My rough drafts seem to go into use without finishing them.