Going to help a friend add a second 12” graph on the bow of his 2023 520R this coming weekend. He has bought a BBT mount and the needed wiring for the nema 2000 and ethernet connections. What should I expect when I take the factory bow plate off, is there a wiring block to connect to or will we need to run back to the console. I’ve done the same thing on mine but it’s a 2016, both boats are at the lake so I’d like to take what we’ll need with me.
mine has a 6 gauge bow to stern power cable installed from the factory. Also had a NMEA system and Ethernet cable already installed. The BBT mount should fit the factory plate spot perfectly. You might need additional NMEA bits and pieces, like a T and a drop cable. The BBT stuff will need to be assembled and uses Allen head bolts. Also will need (I think) a 1/2” wrench to bolt it together. The opening under the bow plate should be open enough to hold excess cabling.Originally Posted by Sarahsdad
Not 100% sure on BBT mount but I can say other mounts typically use heavier hardware. Expect to drill larger holes for the mounting bolts/screws. Also, should be easy to expand the connection for the NMEA networl like mentioned above. You’ll need a T (possibly 2) and a short NMEA cable or two. Make sure you cap it off with a terminal cap end.
Joey Aderhold
I am not sure why you wouldn't just mount the two graphs side by side on the shelf they have built for a dual mount? They sit lower and do not obstruct your view. I have 2 16" Apex units on their original gimbal mounts and they look great. It's also super easy to do and access.
Appreciate the response, I’ve done the same thing to my boat and it was straight forward and no issues but like I said mine is a 2016. Just didn’t know what to expect on a much newer boat and didn’t want to be surprised 30 minutes from the closest available supplies.
I believe he was asking about the bow of the boat. The reason folks use BBT dual mount on the console, vs just bolting them to the “shelf”, is the BBT bracket adds more stability to the graphs by utilizing a third contact point to each graph, vs just the gimbal knobs. It has a rubber cushion that is adjustable that adds vibration resistance right below the internal GPS antenna. BBT also adds a cover to the mount to shield wiring from being exposed. Looks better and somewhat protects the wiring.
I used a BBT mount to raise my unit so the steering wheel doesn't obstruct the view. I am tall, so raising the unit is not an issue for my line of sight over the console.
Same, I'm 6'4" and honestly, the new R has you sitting much higher in the seat than my 2019. I like it a lot now, even though my knee can hit the dash now if I'm not extending my leg.
On the bow, I have the BoatLogix mount, but used to have the BBT mount. It's fantastic, but I like the adjustability of the BoatLogix. As far as the compartment under the front plate, I have two Garmin Black Boxes mounted, so there is plenty of room and the wiring is fantastic from the factory.
Should be an easy process. Extra power source is there from the factory. I added a 12 inch screen and new bracket and it only took about 2 hours to complete. I had to add an extension cable. If you have any questions call Russell Marine best electronic/graph support team. Plus they will have the additional cables you might need.
Good luck.
Thanks for the reply, I suspected there would be ample wiring but just didn’t want any surprises. And yes the BBT mounts are awesome, have one on mine.
Thanks for the info and yes, Russell Marine is awesome I’ve bought multiple items from them over the years.
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