Overview

The Garmin 010-11654-01 is an AMPS rugged mount kit with an audio and power cable for Garmin Montana® Series handheld GPS units. It hardwires to a DC supply from 10 to 50 V, which covers typical 12 V and 24 V onboard systems, and brings the Montana into a fixed cradle so it stays powered while you run.

This is a practical way to keep a Montana where you can see it from the helm, inside a pilothouse, at a secondary console, or on a tender. The mount uses a locking cradle with a security screw and includes a weather cap so the contact area can be kept dry when the device is not seated.

Key features

• Bare-wire power leads for direct connection to 10 to 50 V DC, fitting common 12 V and 24 V electrical systems
• Rugged cradle with a security screw to help keep the Montana seated when the boat is bouncing or vibrating
• Serial data wiring available for a wired data connection when your setup calls for it
• Audio jack lead for routing device audio to an external input
• Hardware included for attaching to an AMPS mounting base, with the AMPS base plate or ball-and-arm system sold separately
• Weather cap helps protect the mount contacts when the device is removed

Compatibility and fit

This mount is built for Garmin Montana® Series handhelds that use the rugged mount contact cradle. Plan your mounting point so the screen is readable from your normal driving position and the cable can be routed without sharp bends or pinch points.

The cradle is intended to bolt to an AMPS pattern base plate. If you are using a RAM-style ball and arm setup, you will still need the appropriate AMPS base plate or adapter to mate the cradle to that system.

Electrical and system integration

Power is a simple two-wire hook-up to your vessel DC supply in the 10 to 50 V range. Protect the circuit the same way you would any accessory feed and keep connections in a dry, serviceable location. If you are not comfortable working on DC wiring, having a qualified installer handle the connections helps avoid damage to wiring, batteries, or equipment.

The cable provides additional conductors for serial data and an audio jack lead. If you are not using those functions, insulate the unused conductors and secure them so they cannot short or chafe in a moving console or under a dash.

Installation and setup

When fastening the cradle to an AMPS base plate, tighten the hardware evenly and avoid over-tightening. A practical target is 15 to 20 lbf-in (1.7 to 2.25 N m) so the mount stays secure without stressing the hardware.

Before seating the Montana, make sure the metal contacts on the device and cradle are dry. On boats that see spray, mounting under a dash brow or inside a protected console helps reduce water exposure during runs and washdowns.

What’s included

• AMPS rugged mount cradle with audio and power cable
• Anti-glare screen protector with applicator card and instructions
• 4 screws for AMPS mounting
• 4 nuts and 4 washers for AMPS mounting
• Security screw tool

Use on board

This setup suits boaters who use a Montana as a portable navigator but want a fixed, powered spot at the helm for long days on the water. It is also a good fit for anglers and cruisers who move the handheld between a main boat and a tender and want the same style of secure cradle at each station.

Maintenance and care

Rinse salt residue from surrounding surfaces as needed and keep the cradle contact area clean. If the device will be off the mount for a while, store the weather cap in place to help keep moisture and grime away from the contacts.