I can't stop tinkering. While I already had the left of speedo dash Kuda mount (as pictured in my signature), I decided to try relocating it to the left of the tach. As we know, the Mini branded left of tach Garmin Nuvi mounting system won't fit my wider Nuvi 680. So I just double-sided taped (super strong type) my Kuda's Garmin ball mounting bracket adapter to the dash trim piece:







As you can see, the view of the upper left corner is partially blocked and requires me leaning my head to right to see if necessary. It's also a little more cumbersome to touch with your fingers but my left hand got used to it pretty quickly. Otherwise, I like the location a lot. It is much more stealth just under the windshield dash versus the Kuda mount which sticks out conspicously. It is already hardwired as I did with my Kuda install. I needed a right-angle stereo jack adapter, otherwise the cable wouldn't fit between the Nuvi and the back of the tach. I also plan to get the Nav stereo harness adapter for newministuff.com that will automatically play the audio through the car speakers.

Here's my Kuda mount for comparison:

 

...After taking off the dash trim around the tach (another adventure) and looking at how it's put together, there's really a lot of room for experimentation here. I'm thinking of a bracket attaching to the back of the trim, extending along the top and bottom, and holding the Kuda ring mount (CNM22)...

 

The main problem I see with it setup to the left of the tach, inside the wheel, is that you wouldn't be able to actually use it while driving. Sticking your hand through the wheel to type in a new address? Ha!

 

Actually, I do use it when driving. I don't stick my hand through the wheel. I use it with my left index finger around the outside of the wheel. It's not that much more difficult than using my right index finger when it's on my Kuda mount. Even if it was mounted elsewhere, I wouldn't recommend entering a new address while driving. I generally just tap it while driving just to change views or to access my pre-set favorites.

 

Left side/right side -- lot of personal preference involved. Personally, I'm paranoid about being the target of a break-in thief. I mount my Nuvi using the suction mount on the speedometer face -- and remove it when I'm not actually using it. Removing the GPS but leaving the mount in place still tells the bad guy that you have a GPS, probably in the glove box. But, if bad guys aren't a problem in your area, then no sweat.

 

That's why I wish I would have gotten the oem NAV. I've already had one GPS stolen. I was stupid and left it on the Kuda mount for less than a hour parked on a busy street with lots of pedestrians in nyc.

 

While I futz around with ideas for a more permanent mount, I'm using the suction cup on the speedo approach. Some places when I get out of the car, I slip the GPS (nuvi) into my pocket, or the secret compartment. Other places, I hang my hat and sunglasses on it.

 

scratch this post. good placement though!!!

 

u drill thru the dash? wha happen when u wan t take the whole thing out? will there be a hole?

 

admittedly i thought about drilling into that dash trim piece which is easily replaceable, but as i mentioned, i just used double-sided tape. in contrast, in kuda mount has tabs that hold it firmly under the dash without need for drilling or tape but requires a little more involved install removing the speedo trim ring.

 

ok....well done

 

Thanks. Anyway, I can't resist tinkering and trying new things. I guess I could take up golf or something like that to take up my spare time.

 

Nothing has more gizmos than golf. They have GPS units that map courses all over the world and tell you how far you are to the front, middle, back, and every trap/lake!

 

You can also use the following:

ebay1

or

ebay2

 

Hi all, I just got a Nuvi 260 and would like to get a compatible mount for my 03 MCS. I already have a Panavise Bracket installed, so all I need is a holder, similar to the one posted here (e.g., Kuda Garmin ball mounting bracket adapter). I dont want to sound cheap, but that little piece of plastics cost $40. Another solution is the Proclip USA, but their price is similar too... Are there any alternatives out there to be used with the Panavise holder? Thanks in advance.

 

Go to Pro Clip. They have everything you need. I have used several of their products that are specially designed for each make of car. I have one in my new 2008 Mini. The mount just 'clips on' and you get whatever adapter you need to go with it that fits your unit. Just don't leave your GPS in the car when you leave. I NEVER do that. Never had a problem with this or the one that I had in my 2003 Mini.

http://www.proclipusa.com

 

Ebay sells Garmin Nuvi mounting adapters cheaper. I found this one.

 

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Posted under wrong thread...Sorry!