Garmin Powered Mount Suction 66i (010-12825-02)

Bought this so I could use my GPS Map66i for driving navigation in remote areas, in addition to hiking, instead of getting a second, driving-specific device. I was worried the screen might be too small for driving use but it’s fine, the suction cup mount is long so it brings the unit forward on the dash so it’s close enough to see the detail you need. The suction cup is quite large and sturdy and seems to adhere to the screen well. I did find it popped off once on a hot day, as does my Quadlock phone suction mount (I think it’s just a feature of windscreen suction mounts in general). The Powered Mount 66i is easy to use. Just attach the screen suction end where you want it, mount the device in the cradle, loosen the knob, position the cradle exactly where you want it (I found it helpful to sit the bottom of the cradle on the dash rather than having it raised in the air as this makes it very stable) and tighten the knob. It’s got a T-shaped knob and thick metal bolt and thread so you can tighten it up firmly. Once done it sits rock solid on the dash. It’s easy to play with the angle of view and get it just right simply by loosening off the knob and readjusting without having to remove and reattach the suction mount. The GPSMap66i slips into the cradle easily and clips solidly into place. Contact with the power contacts is reliable and stable so the unit switches on automatically and stays on while the power is connected. The power contacts are spring loaded so contact is maintained even when driving on rough terrain. Removing the unit from the cradle is a two-handed affair as you have to depress the click-in lever at the back, although over time I expect I could master a one handed technique if I put my mind to it. The USB power cable comes out the back of the cradle, horizontally, at the bottom of the unit which is sensible as the cradle itself can then rest on the dash, rather than on the cable if it came vertically out the bottom of the cradle, so making it more stable and not damaging the cable. I just routed the cable around to the front and down to the usb outlet lower down on the console in my ute. In summary I think this is a great product, easy to use, solidly built, very stable, does what it says.

This is a great solution for vehicle mounting the GPS. Does not take up too much dash and window space but is a nice solid reliable mount. Fast delivery from Johnny Appleseed as always!