Where to mount GPS

[RVhiker]

I've never before used a GPS mapping device in a vehicle, but was given a TomTom Start for Christmas. The device comes with instructions to attach it to the windshield with a mount. My tow is a 2500HD Chevy; if I mount it to the windshield at anything close to eye level it is so far away that operating the touchscreen would be quite a stretch. If I mount it to the dash instead, would it be able to get a signal from the satellites?

[JimBollman]

Not familiar with your dash or how fussy you are keeping everything as from factory. On my F250 I got tired of loose mounts and in the way locations so I found a place fairly high on the dash and mounted an Arkon mounting plate then bought the right adapter for my Garmin. The GPS pops off to hide but is rock solid when I have it installed. Arkon makes many adapters so I can mount any future GPS like device that I may buy and I plan to keep my F250 till it isn't worth much anyway and a few screw holes in the dash will not make a difference.

I have used TomTom and had several over the years but switched to a voice controlled Garmin a few years ago and it makes on the go changes a lot safer.

[J-mans_Dad]

You didn't say what year truck you have but for my 2005 I cut a scrap piece of plexiglas into an "L" shape and wedged it into the center dash cubby. Have the mount for for the GPS on top and mount for my Backup camera below. Brake controller mounted bottom center of dash.



Everything is reachable from both driver and co-pilot position.
Mount can easily be removed while parked or not towing.

[GoPackGo]

I've used and like the bean bags - if you have the room for one. Work surprisingly well and don't slide around. I moved to them because the OEM Garmin suction cup would periodically loosen up at some point and let loose.

I now use a RAM mount suction cup windshield mount for my 7" GPS. Infinitely adjustable and has been mounted to the windshield now for about 6 months without coming loose. Highly recommended.

Tim

[WoodGlue]

I meant to say California and New Jersey. Michigan had a law but I think it went by the wayside.

WoodGlue

[btd35]

So don't be punching any buttons when you're going. punch in you destination, and go. If it needs to be reset, get another person to do it. Lots of accidents from people fussing with GPS's while driving.

[wcjeep]

Locky wrote:

WoodGlue wrote:
In California and Michigan, it's against the law to mount a GPS on the windshield. Just a heads up.

WoodGlue

This is false. It is legal in both California and Michigan.

Last time I rented a car in California they were very specific it was illegal to attach to the windshield. I avoid that state. Law could have changed?

[Locky]

WoodGlue wrote:
In California and Michigan, it's against the law to mount a GPS on the windshield. Just a heads up.

WoodGlue

This is false. It is legal in both California and Michigan.

[classicdude]

I attach mine to the drivers door window down low, leaving enough room to crack the window if I want to. It doesn't block any part of my view, and I can reference it easily. That location has a couple of drawbacks, but for me it's best mounting location.

[john_bet]

Mine is mounted in lower left corner of windshield with the suction cup bracket provided. I can reach it and it does not block my view.

[wingsfan20]

RLS7201 wrote:
With a bean bag mount, you can easily move your GPS out of sight when stopped. The thieves don't need much encouragement to break a window.

Richard

X2 on beanbag and moving out of sight. Also makes using in second vehicle easy.

[RLS7201]

With a bean bag mount, you can easily move your GPS out of sight when stopped. The thieves don't need much encouragement to break a window.

Richard

[Atlee]

My Garmin is on a "bean bag" mount sitting on the dash just to the right of the steering wheel.

You will have no trouble getting satellites there.

I believe CA has some special rules on where GPS receivers can be located.

daamac wrote:
I've never before used a GPS mapping device in a vehicle, but was given a TomTom Start for Christmas. The device comes with instructions to attach it to the windshield with a mount. My tow is a 2500HD Chevy; if I mount it to the windshield at anything close to eye level it is so far away that operating the touchscreen would be quite a stretch. If I mount it to the dash instead, would it be able to get a signal from the satellites?

[WoodGlue]

In California and Michigan, it's against the law to mount a GPS on the windshield. Just a heads up.

WoodGlue

[BB_TX]

I much prefer a bean bag mount. I set it on the front edge of the dash just to right of the steering wheel. Easy to see, easy to reach, and does not block my view of anything except the lower right side of the hood.