Although I can connect Google Maps to my screen in the truck, I still like the Garmin GPS since they don't depend on having a connection. I thought about putting it in the tray above the dash but that location gets way too hot. So with the console down, I found that I could wedge a holder in the crack of the head rest and I used an old CD case heated and bent with a heat gun as the holder. Of course I had to make a hole for the power plug but It works great although not useful at all if riding three in the front. The other thing about it I like is using the power plug in the rear seat so there are not more dangling wires about. I would like to get some better plastic to make a more refined holder (with rounded corners) but who knows when that will be. I hope someone else finds this idea useful.
The power plug actually holds the unit in place.

I will probably bend the angle a bit more vertical for easier viewing.

Yup, it is part of a CD case.

 

They guys here at work think I'm crazy because I use a standalone like that. But when you're traveling in some areas phones don't get reception and since Google Maps doesn't let you download the entire map to your phone - for some odd reason - it's the best way to go.

 

Doggone good idea, hope you don't mind me doing that too. Because I am going to do it anyway.

 

head to walmart or something similar and look at the plastic cutting boards they have in the home goods section. you can pick them up pretty cheap and they should be a better solution than an old cd jewel case. plus they are pretty cheap! we used to use them for speaker adapter/spacers.

 

I think that is a great idea, I will probably do the same. That way the edges can be rounded. I thought about a magnetic mount would be a good addition to the final product but didn't want to foul up the ability to use the original attachment on the GPS. This one was so rough because I was leaving the next day on a pretty long trip. The dash-top installation looks good but it is really a hot location and not quite as easy to use. I probably won't worry about a console up location because just the two of us are always console down. Have a great day, thanks for the idea, k

 

just doing a quick browse this may be a good solution for $8:

https://www.walmart.com/ip/Farberwar...rted/598209758

you could possibly save and reuse the corner bumpers.

 

I went ahead and ordered some HIPS plastic and made a new/nicer holder today. This one has a slot for the power plug. That way, the unit is easy to take out and put in a less conspicuous place. The unit will not slide to the right because the plug stops it and it does not go left because of the piece of foam weather striping pokes up into the little depression in the back of the GPS. This plastic is easy to work with and to cut it, you score it a few times with a box cutter blade and snap it like glass. It breaks clean and as straight as your line. Also this material finishes with sandpaper and some filing on the edges however, it is still very strong the 1/8" thickness is stout enough. I used a heat gun to make the bend... it was easy . I like this design a lot better and I hope it is helpful to someone.






Where to get the plastic

 

Great build, it looks custom made but very simple!

 

Good solution! And I have to agree the Garmin is cheaper, maps update twice a year, and can be used outside the vehicle.

I kept mine on the dash,

mounting plate is on the tray. Only problem with the heat is the suction cup and I'm going to epoxy it in place soon, plan on keeping this truck a looong time! KM