Special preparation of GPS units for bike use

[RadioActive]

I see in the Touratech catalogue that where possible they carry out some special preparation (glue?) inside GPS units to minimise vibration damage from bike use. Looks like most people get their units from other cheaper places so has anyone had any problems using unmodified ones? I'm thinking of getting a 2610 and using one of MigSel's speedo mounts?

Chris

 

[ralphy]

Chris
I believe it is silicone gel that is used in the Touratech offering; I had a conversation with Nick Plumb about this last year & he said they did it to the SPIII's when they arrived in the UK. I got the impression it was for improving the waterproofing of the unit more than anything else.
Certainly had no problems with my (unmodified) SPIII on the bike in 10k so far.

 

[Taff]

I'm sure the specification for the "unmodified" SP3 says that it is designed to work even after being fully submerged in water for up to 30 minutes. If you're GPS is going to be underwater for more than 30 minutes, you have more important things to worry about, and some silicone gel isn't going to make your day.

 

[Gecko]

Had a GPS V for 2 years no on a 60c for the past 6 months - neither modified in any way and never had a problem.

 

[laughingBob]

I had my Garmin 3+ for almost five years. This had had the mod done, as I bought it from John Hill at Brackens when they were the UK agent for Touratech. The new Garmin V, I bought last month, is a standard unit. I'll be interested to see if this lasts as long as the 3+.

 

[RadioActive]

Thanks for your comments. TT mention "sealing parts that stick out a long way from the boards such as capacitors" so it looks like it's more for vibration. Unless my riding suddenly improves, I won't be going on anything more off-roady than forest tracks so I guess I don't need to worry then. If I'm under water the GPS will be the last of my worries

 

[BurnieM]

The silicone is more for vibration than anything else.

You can do it yourself but it will probably void your warranty.

You need to use a 'neutral cure' silicone, the type used for roofing or around aluminimum window frames is neutral.

Most silicones are 'acid cure' and will corrode the circuit boards.