NavPod GP1522 SystemPod Pre-Cut f/Raymarine e7/e7D Mounted In Center f/9.5″ Wide Guard Review

Let’s Talk About NavPod GP1522 SystemPod Pre-Cut f/Raymarine e7/e7D Mounted In Center f/9.5″ Wide Guard

As a seasoned outdoor and tactical gear specialist, I’ve seen countless solutions for mounting electronics on vessels, and frankly, most fall short in terms of durability, weather resistance, or ease of installation. The NavPod GP1522 SystemPod Pre-Cut f/Raymarine e7/e7D Mounted In Center f/9.5″ Wide Guard promises a robust and streamlined solution, specifically tailored for Raymarine e7/e7D units on boats with a 9.5″ wide guard. Its pre-cut design and emphasis on watertight integrity piqued my interest, given my experiences with moisture-related failures in marine electronics.

My own sailboat, a classic Tartan 34, has been slowly undergoing a navigation system overhaul, and the biggest challenge has been finding a secure and weather-resistant housing for my new Raymarine e7D chartplotter. The previous setup was a jury-rigged affair that, while functional, lacked the professional look and, more importantly, the robust protection I demand for offshore sailing. I needed something that could withstand the rigors of salt spray, sun exposure, and the occasional rogue wave.

Upon unboxing the NavPod, I was immediately impressed with the hefty feel of the acrylic capped ABS plastic. It feels substantial, far removed from the flimsy plastic housings I’ve encountered in the past. The pre-cut opening for the Raymarine e7/e7D was clean and precise, suggesting a well-engineered design.

I considered a few alternatives before settling on the NavPod. A competitor offered a similar pod at a slightly lower price point, but reviews consistently mentioned issues with the fit and finish, especially around the pre-cut openings. Another option was a custom-built solution from a local marine fabricator, but the cost was significantly higher, and I wasn’t convinced the custom build would offer better protection or longevity.

My initial excitement stemmed from the NavPod’s promise of a seamless integration with my existing setup and the potential to finally have a navigation station that looks as professional as it performs. The price of $359.99 felt justified if the unit delivered on its claims of durability and weather resistance, but I remained cautiously optimistic until I could put it through its paces in the real world.

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Real-World Testing: Putting NavPod GP1522 SystemPod Pre-Cut f/Raymarine e7/e7D Mounted In Center f/9.5″ Wide Guard to the Test

First Use Experience

I installed the NavPod GP1522 on my Tartan 34 during a particularly blustery weekend. Installation involved mounting the NavPod to my boat’s 9.5″ wide guard using the included stainless steel hardware. The provided mounting gaskets ensured a snug and watertight fit against the guard rail.

My first sail with the NavPod installed was a coastal cruise down to Monterey Bay. The weather was typical for the California coast: heavy morning fog that burned off by midday, followed by strong afternoon winds. The NavPod held up admirably, protecting the Raymarine e7D from both the persistent moisture and the direct sunlight. There were no issues with water ingress or excessive heat buildup inside the pod.

Extended Use & Reliability

After six months of regular use, including several multi-day offshore passages, the NavPod GP1522 continues to perform flawlessly. I haven’t noticed any signs of cracking, fading, or warping, despite prolonged exposure to sun and salt. The NavPod remains securely mounted, and the Raymarine e7D inside is as pristine as the day I installed it.

Maintenance is straightforward: a simple wipe-down with a soft cloth and mild soap is all that’s needed to remove salt spray and grime. I appreciate the robust construction; it’s clear this pod is built to withstand the harsh marine environment. Compared to my previous setup, which required constant vigilance against moisture and corrosion, the NavPod is a significant upgrade.

Breaking Down the Features of NavPod GP1522 SystemPod Pre-Cut f/Raymarine e7/e7D Mounted In Center f/9.5″ Wide Guard

Specifications

The NavPod GP1522 SystemPod Pre-Cut f/Raymarine e7/e7D Mounted In Center f/9.5″ Wide Guard is designed specifically to house a Raymarine e7 or e7D chartplotter in the center, on vessels with a 9.5″ wide guard rail. The main body is constructed from acrylic capped ABS plastic, offering exceptional resistance to UV damage and impact.

It includes chromed stainless steel tamper-proof fasteners, providing both security and corrosion resistance in the marine environment. The double seal around the perimeter ensures watertight integrity, protecting the enclosed electronics from water damage. It also ships with stainless steel mounting hardware and mounting gaskets, facilitating a secure and watertight installation.

Performance & Functionality

The NavPod GP1522 excels at its primary function: protecting and presenting a Raymarine e7/e7D chartplotter. The pre-cut opening ensures a perfect fit, and the internal space is well-ventilated to prevent overheating. The viewing angle is excellent, allowing for clear visibility of the chartplotter screen from various positions on the boat.

The only area for potential improvement is the cable management. While the pod does offer access points for wiring, a more streamlined and organized system for routing cables would be a welcome addition. Overall, the NavPod meets and exceeds my expectations for a marine electronics housing.

Design & Ergonomics

The NavPod’s design is clean and functional, blending seamlessly with the aesthetics of my sailboat. The black color is classic and understated, and the rounded edges prevent snagging lines or clothing. The weight is substantial, but not excessively so, and the unit feels well-balanced when mounted.

There is a slight learning curve associated with the installation, primarily related to aligning the mounting hardware and ensuring a proper seal. However, the instructions are clear and concise, and with a bit of patience, anyone with basic mechanical skills can complete the installation successfully.

Durability & Maintenance

The NavPod GP1522 is built to last. The acrylic capped ABS plastic is incredibly robust, and the stainless steel hardware is resistant to corrosion. I fully expect this pod to provide years of reliable service.

Maintenance is minimal: a simple wipe-down with a damp cloth is sufficient to keep it looking its best. I occasionally apply a UV protectant to the plastic to further enhance its longevity.

Accessories and Customization Options

The NavPod itself is fairly self-contained, but its compatibility with standard marine mounting systems allows for some degree of customization. You can use different types of mounting brackets to adjust the viewing angle or position of the pod.

While the NavPod is specifically pre-cut for the Raymarine e7/e7D, NavPod offers a range of SystemPods pre-cut for many popular electronics.

Pros and Cons of NavPod GP1522 SystemPod Pre-Cut f/Raymarine e7/e7D Mounted In Center f/9.5″ Wide Guard