Mounting chartplotter in 320 dash

[Steve.Lynette]

Can anyone recommend the best method for cutting a hole in the panel on the port side of the dash in a 320DA? I'm concerned about cracking it.

Thanks!

 

[crowder]

If you have a plastic supply company near you I would suggest taking it there. They can use laser or CAD machinge to safely cut it for you. Should not be too expensive.

 

[fasttoys7619]

I used a roto zip on a previous boat , worked great , use blue painters tape, tape over area (helps protect surface and helps prevent chipping) mark your cut out ,then cut

 

[Lanier Tom]

I used a roto zip on a previous boat , worked great , use blue painters tape, tape over area (helps protect surface and helps prevent chipping) mark your cut out ,then cut

Same for me. Roto zip worked great on a few installs.

 

[crowder]

Same for me. Roto zip worked great on a few installs.

How do you attach the unit to the dash after you cut the hole ?

 

[Lanier Tom]

How do you attach the unit to the dash after you cut the hole ?

Depends on what you are mounting. Assuming it is a chart plotter, most have the ability to screw from behind for a "flush mount". I did this with a Garmin 2006c a few years back.The Raymarine C80 looks to be mounted the same. Check the manual for installation guides just to be sure.

 

[crowder]

Depends on what you are mounting. Assuming it is a chart plotter, most have the ability to screw from behind for a "flush mount". I did this with a Garmin 2006c a few years back.The Raymarine C80 looks to be mounted the same. Check the manual for installation guides just to be sure.

I will look thanks I always liked the look of the plotter mounted in the dash

 

[Lazy Daze]

I like to drill the corners out with a large bit (1/2" - depending on template) to ensure a nice, smooth corner. Then score the straight lines with a Dremel cut-off tool to about a 1/8" - 1/4" depth. Basically the same thing as a Roto-zip, I use those special, side-ways cutting drill bits that insert into the Dremel. The score allows for a little bit of error while tracking the straight lines.

Keep your hand on the dash to help guide/brace the cutting tool. These tools cut better in one direction than the other... I never remember which way till I start.

Practice cutting in the center of the cut-out for a while. Draw a straight line on the gelcoat and try to follow it.

Have a helper hold a shop-vac hose near your cuts.

 

[skolbe]

I cut mine with a jig saw - but drilled holes to get it started. I also taped it like crazy. Had no issue with cracking.

 

[Alex F]

Same here, tape well, pre-drill holes, jigsaw with new blade, shopvack and you should be good to go.

 

[sdarc]

As stated above, drilling holes in the corners will put a radius to help eliminate stress cracks.

 

[Steve.Lynette]

Thanks everyone.
Great information.

 

[Captain B]

If you go the jigsaw route, I would highly suggest a "reverse cut" blade. It will cut on the down stroke instead of the up stroke. This will also help to keep the gel coat from chipping as well.

 

[skolbe]

The panel on a 320 is a plastic wood grain piece, not fiberglass.