Where do I mount gps antenna?

[mssrusso]

Today I purchased a 190 bay!!! This is my first boat so I am very concerned when I make modifications or upgrades to my new boat, I would like to get it right the first time.
I bought the Garmin 498 with external GPS. I wanted to know where the best place is to mount the external gps antenna? I bought a clamp so that I can attach it to the rail that is around the windsheild. I have a bimini top, will that interfere with the gps antenna if so will I have to mount the antenna somewhere else? If I mount it on the rail around the windsheild what is the best way to route the antenna cable? Should I drill holes into the stainless steel rail and run the cable inside it? I have spent some time searching this website for details on this and have not found much but that may be due to me being new to this and not really knowing how to search very good.
Does anyone have any pics of where they mounted there antenna?
Thanks

[AstroDiver]

Mine is mounted on the windshield rail you spoke of. Remember, a GPS gets information from many satellites. I too have a bimini top and have no problem getting a signal if I'm not under the trees also.
Now, if you use XM or Sirius Radio, that signal comes from one satellite so you may have to move the antenna out from under the top.

As for the cable, you may want to just zip tie it to the grab rail around the windshield. I have a Gilsson GPS antenna. I just set in on the mount that I have so I don't restrain the cord.

Hope this helps.

[bob_bra]

I had to mount the antenna at the bow for a good signal due to my sunbrella top. The stern area also had a good signal but I felt the antenna would get in the way while landing fish.

I used a flush mounted antenna which minimized the impact of the antenna placement. Bob

[elroy]

I have the same gps and mounted the antenna on the dash behind the cup holder of my 170cc. there is always a bunch of stuff anound it and sometimes covering it, also with the top up and I have never had a problem.

[nocturn]

I mounted mine right behind the Anchor light socket on the aft starboard side gunnel. It stays clear of everything so there is no blockage from struture. I used the same condit that powers the Anchor light socket for the Antenna wire.

[delawaredogfish]

Mounted mine to the dash area that is protected by the windshield. check out the picture under fish pictures(oc md flounder). I never lose my gps signal and it is protected from bow spray. I also can cover the boat without any problems caused by the gps antenna.
I also have the Garmin 498c. awesome unit! 2 yrs old no problems.
i also use a bimini top.

http://www.triumphowners.net/photos/...june07_015.JPG

[2007Triumph]

delawaredogfish, I just purchased the same 178C with external antenna. I plan to mount it in the same spot this week but have one question for ya.Does your GPS get good reception with the Bimini top up with it located there?

[skeeter]

I mounted mine to the rail of the swim platform.Used the same rail clamp that would fit grab rail.

[mick]

I have mine on the windshield bar too. I originally had in on the dash, but from time to time I would lose the fix (Raymarine A65). My guess was the compass or other electronics caused the interference. I moved it to the bar and have it on a ratchet mount (like my VHF antenna) so I can turn it down when I cover the boat. Works great!

mick

[Mike in Maine]

I gotta a Garmin 498 with an internal antenna. It works just fine. I have a 2007 215cc with a T-Top. No problems at all after 150 hours of use. If its not to late take the unit back and swap it for a unit with an internal.

M I M