R29 Garmin Dash Upgrade

J

JK13

Member
Joined
Aug 9, 2024
Messages
18
Fluid Motion Model
R-29 S
I recently finished a DIY upgrade to the outdated Garmin components.
I like having a large 17" main chart plotter Model 8617 and also two smaller chart plotters so I can have important information all up at the same time.
I don't like zooming in and out or split screens.
This allows a closer zoomed in (details) chart on the main screen then a zoomed out regional view on a smaller screen and then other info as I choose radar, sonar etc on the the other smaller screen.
Since I did not want to completely rebuild the existing panel, I chose to use a carbon fiber plate (0.15") thick (very stiff and strong) to support the new instruments and cover the old cut-outs.
Re-arranged the layout of the panels using CAD models in Fusion 360 for CNC cutting the carbon panel and router template.
We did not like the high gloss Carbon so I deglossed it and clear coated with high quality 2-pack automotive clear coat satin finish (lucky to have a spray booth in my shop).
Also CNC cutout a MDF template to use as a router jig and it was easy but messy (made a plastic drop cloth curtain to contain the dust) to make the cutouts accurately.
Also installed new model autopilot, Garmin rudder angle indicator and AIS 800 upgrade along with new VHF as well.
All works perfect and I am very impressed with how well Garmin has supported and how few glitches with this major refit.
Let me know if you have questio9ns??

🙂

JoeIMG_1558.jpeg
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Last edited:
Very impressive work.
 
Wow. Well done!
 
Very impressive. The thing I like least about my setup is that I can not see the radio when I need it the most. In traffic, trying to maneuver, and trying to adjust the radio. I wish it was in the overhead, like the R21’s. I would like to be able to use the radio and keep an eye on the water.
 
Beautiful! Well done
 
Thank you all for the nice comments!!! - it was a fun project and there is lots more to come as we get close to haul-out time this spring!

🙂

Joe
 
Todd Tugnut said:
Very impressive. The thing I like least about my setup is that I can not see the radio when I need it the most. In traffic, trying to maneuver, and trying to adjust the radio. I wish it was in the overhead, like the R21’s. I would like to be able to use the radio and keep an eye on the water.
Click to expand...
Todd. I installed the Garmin handheld remote… got it at Rodger’s by Salty’s. Best thing I’ve done so far!
 
YES. Very impressive and professional remounting. My compliments.

Now let me make one comment in general - not alluding to your installation.
Twice in my boating years (and once in my flying) I have had a instantaneous total GPS loss where there was no possibility of just winging it by eye..
In each case had I not had a paper chart at hand it could have gotten ugly.
I love electronics as much as the next person.
But have a chart that does not depend on the satellites or the power.
 
Completely agree and always have backup charts!!!

Thank you for your comments!

🙂

Joe
 
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