Re: GPS survey
 

The handheld is a Garmin. I had one before I bought this boat. It can run on the batteries or the 12V cord connected under the dash. Garmin makes a cable for most of their handhelds for connection to 12 V and data leads for PCs and other devices that can read GPS data. Figured I would save a few bucks by not buying the GPS receiver since most GPSs have data outputs and I was looking for a project.

I like the handheld so I can take it with me to check speedos in other boats. :D The data cable on the handheld can be connected to a PC so that you can download software updates on the net and then transfer them to the handheld. I also updated my GPS to another model and I was able to save my waypoints on my PC and transfer them to the new GPS. If anything happens to my waypoints, I keep a backup on my PC. I'm sure this all can be done on dash mounted units.

The speedo is a 120 by Livorsi (Gaffrig). All my gauges are Livorsi. When I ordered my gauges to rig the boat, is was cheaper to buy the GPS than it was to buy a liquid speedo and a good pilot tube, plus I run in log infested rivers most of the time and the tubes tend to bend or break.

If you plan on using a GPS like I did, make sure the GPS does not have a maximum speed that is too low and that the output is compatible with your speedo. Garmin did make a change in the data output by inserting preceding "0"s in the speed field and I had to update the firmware in my speedo for $75. I had to do all the troubleshooting with a data analyzer to figure this out. Livorsi was very supportive about the update after I told them what my problem was.

I would recommend buying the kit unless you like electronic projects.

Re: GPS survey
 

The digital is nice it reads from 0 to 200mph in 1/10 increments. It is a lot easier to read a 1 inch number than a little needle if you are running over a hundred. The Gaffrig memory eraces if you turn the key off after a test. Buy the kit and keep the dash clean.