Need Some GPS Help
 

I am looking to install a GPS in the dash. How come I can't find any dash mountable units on the Garmin website. Please view the pictures below, as this is what I want to do, but can't seem to find one like these. Are they regular models that the factory installs in the dash, or do they make models specifically to mount in the dash.

Re: Need Some GPS Help
 

Big ones like these are the 2000 series and 3000 series. On a go fast style the 2010 should be fine the deference is that you can hook up a radar to the 3010. I have the 2010 on my Outer Limits works great.

Re: Need Some GPS Help
 

Thanks. So they just take the normal GPS and mount it into the dash?

I was looking at the 3205. It says that it is preloaded with maps. I never had luck loading the maps on the GPS via the internet or a CD. Does this means it comes preloaded, ready to go? And has anyone else used the ones that come preloaded?

http://www.garmin.com/products/gpsmap3205/

Re: Need Some GPS Help
 

They have templates in the Owners Manual--and you can download that from the Garmin site. Dealer here said all Garmin charts were included in the new onese--no need for chips anymore.

Re: Need Some GPS Help
 

2006 or 3006 Garmin

The middle pic is a Tiger with most likely an old 215 unit that is replaceable with one of the units mentioned above.

The "6" in the number represents the dimension in inches of the screen diagonally. Obviously the 2010 and 3010 have bigger screens.

I don't think series 2000 is still manufactured but you can still find distributors with some for sale on line at a good price. The 3000 series can interact with satellite weather and so forth something the 2000 series did not do.

Re: Need Some GPS Help
 

Look at the Garmin 3206 if you have room. It adds video inputs over the 3205. You could mount a camera facing rearward and use it as a rearview mirror and put one in your engine compartment as well.

Best bang for the buck going now is the Lowrance X26 if you need a good chartplotter/depth sounder.7.5 inch screen. It has all coastal waters covered as well as most major lakes software.It comes with a transducer and antenna. Its Radar capable if you wanted to add it for a grand, and you can also add fuel flow meters and tank level sensors as well. It is very nice at 1400.00
http://www.boatersworld.com/product/319392783.htm

Re: Need Some GPS Help
 

I know all you Cigs guys love the Garmins becasue the Factory installs them but take a look at my RayMarine unit. Much clearer then any other Garmin I have found...

Re: Need Some GPS Help
 

I have both units, in separate boats. I like Garmins charts better than Raymarine's. Also I think the Garmin has thinner borders they take up a little less dash space for the screen size. But both are good quality units in my experiance.

Re: Need Some GPS Help
 

Great info guys. Thanks a bunch. I have to see if I can fit the 3206 in my dash because I don't have much space, unless I move some guages. I don't think I'll have room for the 10" screens either way, but hopefully I can fit the 3205 or 3206.