Need help on lift mechanism for depth finder.

[dunginhawk]

so this is an odd request i know, but here is what im working with.

I have a new 898c si ds combo. I use friends boats a lot, my own some, and in canada the lodge boats a lot. So i want to make a portable system for my new fish finder.
Im going to mount it inside this case.
http://www.trunksdepot.com/steel-box-p-1071.html

The GPS module may be mounted on a pvc arm out one side, or mount to the top, but must be able to store inside quickly.

EDIT: the problem isnt mounting the GPS, the problem is mounting the fish finder unit. I need IT to rise up.


THe problem i have is if i mount the unit to the bottom or close to the bottom of the trunk then i cant see the screen .
So what I am hoping to do is mount it on some sort of lift device, like a chair mount or something.
I want to be able to raise it up 5-6 inches and then push it back down and lock it in to place.
Hope this makes sense.

I dont mind spending some money to do it right, so no suggestion is too crazy.
Ive thought about a television lift, but i think they are too big to fit.
Im ok doing it by hand, or battery operated.

any help would be much appreciated.
thanks



Modified by dunginhawk at 6:36 PM 3/11/2012

[JediBasser]

Since no one else posted, I'll weigh in. If a magnet does not affect a GPS transponder, I would mount it to an old CB antenna magnet and place it on the outside of the steel box when being used. Easy and simple. If not, perhaps my high tech (non-CAD) drawing below would work. Good Luck!

[dunginhawk]

yeah not bad at all... certainly an option.
thanks :) and the drawing was 100x better than i could do.

[Rangerhgm]

what if you mount a RAM mount in the bottom of the case? Then you could raise and lower the unit and lock it in place.

[jbpainter]

Is hinging the front of the box an option? that way you could drop down the front to reveal the screen and it would still be fully protected when the box is in the carry position.

if cutting is not an option, then i think a small scissor lift jack with the operating positon of the jack positioned so it could be accessed from the outside.

I think that what ever you decide, weight is gonna be a problem. Its gonna be a big heavy box to lug around. Just have your buddy buy one!! lol