Garmin TD5 screen DIY install

[RangerRoamer]

Has anyone installed a Garmin TD5 display in the helm of an R27?

I'm comfortable with the wiring and connections, but I'm a little hesitant about cutting a hole in the helm. Garmin provides a template with clearly marked drill locations, so the process seems pretty straightforward. I'm planning to use a Dremel to make the cutout.

I'd love to hear from anyone who's tackled this themselves. Any tips, lessons learned, tools or things to watch out for?

I'd also like to save the $1,000 or so a dealer would probably charge, but I'm wondering if this is one of those jobs better left to the pros. Is the savings worth the risk?

 

[Mastercraft]

A standard Dremel tool will take a long time. You will go thru a lot of cutters. A jig saw (saber saw) fine tooth will work better. An oscillating multi-tool works great. I assume it is about 8x10 cutout in 0.1" fiberglass plus the decorative face. It can be big dust and a mess with the wrong tool. The quality of the tool will make a big difference Dewalt or Bosch vs. Harbor Freight.

 

[S. Todd]

I second the recommendation to use an oscillating tool. New blades in my Milwaukee OT will cut through all kinds of materials and I have used it successfully on wood and fiberglass. Your biggest challenge will be making sure there is nothing on the backside of where you are mounting your new MFD. You cannot be too careful with moving and taping aside any wires cables or anything else on the back side of where you are cutting.

 

[4umfreak]

Hard agree. Not a Dremel. Drill out the corners and use an oscillating saw. Use tape or something to limit cutting depth to slightly less than your material, then one easy, final pass to free it.

Also, before cutting verify that you have enough room behind the panel for what you are installing!