Where would you fit this on the dash?

mnm99

Well-Known Member
Oct 2, 2015
2,445
Long Island
Boat Info
2004 340 SeaRay Sundancer
Engines
Twin 8.1 Merc
I'm looking into buying an autopilot. The unit comes with a control unit that is 4.3 " x 4.4 ". I have a merc alarm module to the left of the wheel. I have had it go off before and it like having it. If I move it and put the autopilot there, where would you put the merc unit?
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So I removed the merc unit. Where should I put it?
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Last edited:
I like the previous answer, other option is to move the VHF to the side panel.
 
You could also ditch the stereo head unit. Re-locate it anywhere else on the boat and connect it (or a new one) to NM2K. Control it on either of the Garmins, your phone, or a wired or wireless remote.

It basically comes down to this: never listen to someone on the internet who only recommends re-arranging things. If it doesn't involve an upgrade or spending money, is it really worth it? :D
 
Like RollerCoastr said, control your stereo from the garmin and ditch the stereo control head. Looks like you are completely out of space. Also, doesn't the garmin mfd have a simulated control display that duplicates the auto pilot head unit?
 
You could also ditch the stereo head unit. Re-locate it anywhere else on the boat and connect it (or a new one) to NM2K. Control it on either of the Garmins, your phone, or a wired or wireless remote.

It basically comes down to this: never listen to someone on the internet who only recommends re-arranging things. If it doesn't involve an upgrade or spending money, is it really worth it? :D

A classic @RollerCoastr post! Hah...let's spend some money!

OP, a @RollerCoastr approved option would be to install one of the units linked below. Ditch the head unit like everyone is saying. You could fit the remote anywhere though you'd never need it...just use your MFD. Stash the black box up under the helm where all of your wiring already exists. A three beer job, max.

https://www.amazon.com/Fusion-MS-BB...ywords=fusion+black+box&qid=1610633641&sr=8-3
 
I have no idea if this can be done... but can the MercMonitor be integrated in the Smartcraft display? Meaning, re-route the MM stuff directly to the SC and ditch the MM display.

Same idea, as mentioned above, for trying to display the AP directly in the Garmin MFD.

Getting back to simply moving the MM display. This is not something you feel you have to actively monitor, right? In other words, you really only need to look at it if the alarm goes off? You could put it underneath the steering wheel somewhere.
 
One thing to consider is upgrading your VHF to a black box unit. That would free up quite a bit of real estate. I've been very pleased with the Vesper Cortex unit.
 
The big question is do you need that AP head at all?? What function will it provide that can not be accomplished via the MFD's (assuming you have the latest and greatest hardware/firmware). It looks great, but may not be necessary, and you can ebay it/pocket several hundred $$$.

I just upgraded my Raymarine autopilot, and they have a video of it running "headless" ie all from an Axiom screen. I looked at running headless, but the Raymarine AP head I have has the rotary knob to adjust the heading (that I like and use a lot), that can not be replicated on the MFD, so I'm keeping it and having the same issue of where to place it as you. Keep in mind that the Garmin does not have the rotary knob, but does have this function via push button or on screen button, so might be easily replicated on the MFD.

If your going to keep the head, I like the idea of moving the Sea Ray monitor to another location (or replacement...see below), because you want quick/easy access and good visibility to that head, you'll likely be touching/adjusting it a fair amount. That position is prime real estate.

Thinking 1 step ahead...if your going to move your Sea Ray monitor, you could consider using TTmott's Sea Ray Monitor replacement system and all the alarms are now on the N2K network/and display on you MFD's. It would be a project, but that Sea ray monitor isn't going to last forever.
 
One other option and my preferred solution...Buy a bigger boat with more dash space:D
 
The big question is do you need that AP head at all?? What function will it provide that can not be accomplished via the MFD's (assuming you have the latest and greatest hardware/firmware). It looks great, but may not be necessary, and you can ebay it/pocket several hundred $$$.

I just upgraded my Raymarine autopilot, and they have a video of it running "headless" ie all from an Axiom screen. I looked at running headless, but the Raymarine AP head I have has the rotary knob to adjust the heading (that I like and use a lot), that can not be replicated on the MFD, so I'm keeping it and having the same issue of where to place it as you. Keep in mind that the Garmin does not have the rotary knob, but does have this function via push button or on screen button, so might be easily replicated on the MFD.

If your going to keep the head, I like the idea of moving the Sea Ray monitor to another location (or replacement...see below), because you want quick/easy access and good visibility to that head, you'll likely be touching/adjusting it a fair amount. That position is prime real estate.

Thinking 1 step ahead...if your going to move your Sea Ray monitor, you could consider using TTmott's Sea Ray Monitor replacement system and all the alarms are now on the N2K network/and display on you MFD's. It would be a project, but that Sea ray monitor isn't going to last forever.

I'm going to call Garmin tomorrow. I though I read from someone that you need it to set up the system. I would love to use my mdf and save some money. I just installed another MDF for my flir, but won't be using autopilot at night probably.
 
I have seen them moved to the panel just below in the same place they mount the speaker for the vhf. Can't see the display but not sure you really need to with audible alarm.
 
I talked to Garmin. He said I can do the setup and all functions through the msg, but it’s just easier through the display. I think I’ll try that first.
 
Its definitely easier through the dedicated display but, still leaves a real estate problem. I'm seriously considering updating the Sea Ray Systems Monitor as I have a couple Maretron DSM 410's that will fit the bill. Then, mount my AP control head in its place.

The one VERY nice feature of the Garmin Reactor system is you can grab the wheel and make changes eliminating the need for the rotary wheel like on the Raymarine...its a great system.
 
After thinking, I'm moving my merc monitor. Where should I put it? I also posted on the 1st page of this thread.
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Helm real estate is precious. I'd probably put it on the side wall as in your last picture.
 

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