Let’s Talk About Raymarine Adaptor Plate f/Axiom 9 to C80/E80 Size Cutout Will Require New Holes
Marine electronics upgrades can be a costly and time-consuming affair. The hassle often extends beyond the price of the new unit, especially when dealing with older boats. This is where the Raymarine Adaptor Plate f/Axiom 9 to C80/E80 Size Cutout Will Require New Holes enters the picture, offering a potentially simpler solution to upgrading to a modern Raymarine Axiom 9 display without completely reworking your boat’s console.
My old C80 chartplotter finally gave up the ghost after years of faithful service. The thought of patching and fiberglassing the existing cutout, then re-cutting it precisely for a new Axiom 9 was daunting. That’s when I started looking into adaptor plates.
The Raymarine Adaptor Plate f/Axiom 9 to C80/E80 Size Cutout Will Require New Holes arrived in a simple, no-frills package. The black plastic felt robust, and the overall design looked clean. It was immediately apparent that it wasn’t a perfect drop-in replacement, hence the “Will Require New Holes” in the product name.
I considered a universal mounting bracket, but they often lack the clean, integrated look I was after. I also looked at a custom fiberglass solution but the cost was prohibitive and required specialized skills I lacked. This adaptor plate seemed like the best compromise between cost, aesthetics, and ease of installation.
My first impression was a mix of relief and slight apprehension. I was glad to have a potential solution in hand, but the need to drill new holes always makes me a bit nervous when working on my boat. Hopefully, the final installation will justify the cost and effort.
Real-World Testing: Putting Raymarine Adaptor Plate f/Axiom 9 to C80/E80 Size Cutout Will Require New Holes to the Test
First Use Experience
The initial test fit was conducted in my workshop before heading to the boat. I wanted to get a feel for the plate’s dimensions and identify any potential challenges before committing to drilling. The fit against the Axiom 9 was snug and secure, indicating a well-designed interface between the display and the plate.
On the boat, the existing C80 cutout was slightly larger than the adaptor plate, as expected. This meant the plate would cover the previous opening, providing a clean canvas for the Axiom 9. Aligning the plate was straightforward, but marking the new hole locations required careful measurement to ensure the Axiom 9 sat perfectly level.
The drilling process itself was uneventful, although working in the confined space of the boat’s console was a bit challenging. Once the holes were drilled and the plate secured, the Axiom 9 slid into place. It transformed the helm station from looking outdated to modern.
There were no major issues or surprises during the initial installation beyond the expected drilling. It took about an hour from start to finish, a considerable time saving compared to a full fiberglass repair. The Axiom 9 booted up flawlessly, ready for my next fishing trip.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of use, the Raymarine Adaptor Plate f/Axiom 9 to C80/E80 Size Cutout Will Require New Holes has performed admirably. It shows no signs of wear or loosening. The black finish has held up well against sun and saltwater exposure.
The adaptor plate is constructed from what appears to be a UV-resistant ABS plastic. This material choice should ensure it doesn’t become brittle or discolored over time. A quick wipe with a damp cloth is all it takes to keep it looking clean.
Compared to the old C80 installation, the Axiom 9, mounted with this adapter, feels significantly more secure. Previously, the aging plastic of the C80 housing was beginning to crack. I’m confident this setup will outlast the old one by a considerable margin.
Breaking Down the Features of Raymarine Adaptor Plate f/Axiom 9 to C80/E80 Size Cutout Will Require New Holes
Specifications
The Raymarine Adaptor Plate f/Axiom 9 to C80/E80 Size Cutout Will Require New Holes is specifically designed to facilitate the replacement of older Raymarine C80/E80 Classic Multifunction Displays with a newer Axiom 9. The plate’s dimensions are tailored to cover the existing cutout from the older units. This allows for a relatively seamless transition.
The primary material is black ABS plastic. This provides a blend of durability, UV resistance, and a clean aesthetic. The product color is black, which allows it to seamlessly integrate with most boat console designs.
The plate is designed for surface mounting and does require the drilling of new mounting holes. This ensures a secure and stable installation. This adaptor provides a cost-effective solution compared to more complex fiberglass repairs.
Performance & Functionality
The Raymarine Adaptor Plate f/Axiom 9 to C80/E80 Size Cutout Will Require New Holes performs its intended function perfectly. It provides a solid and aesthetically pleasing mounting solution for the Axiom 9 in place of the older C80/E80 units.
The plate’s strength and rigidity are more than adequate to support the Axiom 9. There’s no noticeable flex or vibration, even in rough seas. The main drawback is the need to drill new holes, which can be intimidating for some boat owners.
It met my expectations for a simple and effective adaptor solution. I was looking for a clean and relatively easy way to upgrade my chartplotter, and this plate delivered on that promise. The adaptor streamlined the entire upgrade process.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality is acceptable for a plastic adaptor plate. The ABS plastic is reasonably thick and feels durable. The plate’s weight is minimal, which is a plus when considering the overall load on the boat’s console.
The design is straightforward and functional. It prioritizes ease of installation and a clean aesthetic. The plate has a seamless, professional look.
The installation process is generally user-friendly, although basic DIY skills are required. Drilling new holes can be daunting for some. I recommend taking careful measurements and pre-drilling pilot holes to ensure accurate alignment.
Durability & Maintenance
Given the ABS plastic construction, the plate should last for many years with minimal maintenance. It is resistant to UV damage, saltwater, and general wear and tear. The material choice makes the adaptor durable.
Cleaning is simple; a quick wipe with a damp cloth is sufficient to remove any dirt or salt buildup. There are no moving parts or complex mechanisms to worry about. Maintaining the adaptor is easy.
The plate’s robust construction suggests it will outlast the typical lifespan of marine electronics. Its design minimizes potential points of failure. With reasonable care, it should offer long-term reliability.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Raymarine Adaptor Plate f/Axiom 9 to C80/E80 Size Cutout Will Require New Holes is a standalone product and doesn’t come with any additional accessories. It is designed to work specifically with the Raymarine Axiom 9 display.
Customization options are limited to painting the plate if desired. However, the black finish is generally neutral enough to blend with most boat console designs. The black color blends in well with other equipment.
While not a customization option, proper sealant application during installation is crucial. This prevents water ingress and ensures a watertight seal between the plate and the console. Applying sealant will protect the electronics.
Pros and Cons of Raymarine Adaptor Plate f/Axiom 9 to C80/E80 Size Cutout Will Require New Holes
Pros
- Provides a clean and professional-looking installation for Axiom 9 displays.
- Offers a cost-effective alternative to complex fiberglass repairs.
- Simple and relatively easy to install with basic DIY skills.
- Durable ABS plastic construction ensures long-term reliability.
- Covers existing C80/E80 cutouts seamlessly.
Cons
- Requires drilling new mounting holes.
- Limited customization options.
Who Should Buy Raymarine Adaptor Plate f/Axiom 9 to C80/E80 Size Cutout Will Require New Holes?
The Raymarine Adaptor Plate f/Axiom 9 to C80/E80 Size Cutout Will Require New Holes is perfect for boat owners looking to upgrade their older Raymarine C80/E80 displays to the newer Axiom 9 without undertaking major console modifications. It’s also a good option for those comfortable with basic DIY tasks like drilling and screwing.
Those who should skip this product include boat owners who are unwilling or unable to drill new holes in their console. Also, those seeking a completely flush-mounted solution might prefer a custom fiberglass repair.
Must-have accessories include a drill, drill bits, a screwdriver, a measuring tape, and marine-grade sealant. Also, a center punch is helpful for accurately starting the drill holes.
Conclusion on Raymarine Adaptor Plate f/Axiom 9 to C80/E80 Size Cutout Will Require New Holes
Overall, the Raymarine Adaptor Plate f/Axiom 9 to C80/E80 Size Cutout Will Require New Holes is a well-designed and functional product that delivers on its promise. It provides a simple, cost-effective solution for upgrading to a modern Raymarine Axiom 9 display.
At $95.89, the price is justified given the time and effort saved compared to alternative solutions. The price is fair considering the value.
I would personally recommend this product to anyone looking for a straightforward and aesthetically pleasing way to replace their old C80/E80 unit with an Axiom 9. If you’re comfortable with drilling a few holes, this adaptor plate is a worthwhile investment. Consider purchasing this adapter for simpler installations.