Let’s Talk About Scanstrut Rail Mounted Pod Compact
The Scanstrut Rail Mounted Pod Compact is designed to address the challenge of mounting displays and instruments on boats where space is limited. Manufactured by Scanstrut, this pod offers a sleek and robust solution for integrating electronics into your vessel’s helm. Its compact design, rail mounting capability, and durable construction make it a standout option for boaters seeking a professional and organized navigation setup.
I needed a way to securely and cleanly mount a new chartplotter on my sailboat’s binnacle guard. Existing options felt flimsy or required extensive modification of the rail. The Scanstrut Rail Mounted Pod Compact promised a straightforward installation and a secure, professional-looking finish, which is exactly what I was after.
Upon unboxing, the first thing I noticed was the solid feel of the pod. The black finish looked sharp, and the materials felt robust, promising resistance to the harsh marine environment. The build quality appeared top-notch, with tight seams and a well-engineered mounting system.
I considered a RAM Mount system and a custom-fabricated bracket. However, the RAM Mount felt less secure and visually less appealing. A custom bracket would be time-consuming and potentially more expensive. The Scanstrut Rail Mounted Pod Compact offered the best balance of aesthetics, functionality, and ease of installation.
My initial impression was one of excitement. The pod seemed well-designed and well-built, giving me confidence that it would solve my mounting problem while adding a touch of professionalism to my boat’s helm. I was eager to get it installed and see it in action.
Real-World Testing: Putting Scanstrut Rail Mounted Pod Compact to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Scanstrut Rail Mounted Pod Compact on my sailboat during a week-long coastal cruise. The conditions ranged from calm sunny days to blustery conditions with moderate spray. The pod was mounted on the binnacle guard, housing an 8-inch chartplotter.
The pod performed admirably in all conditions. It kept the chartplotter securely in place, even when the boat was heeling significantly in stronger winds. The viewing angle was easily adjustable, allowing me to maintain a clear view of the screen regardless of my position at the helm.
Installation was relatively straightforward, although aligning the pod perfectly on the rail took some patience. Once tightened, the clamp felt incredibly secure. The internal cable routing kept the wiring neat and protected from the elements.
Initially, I was slightly concerned about the pod’s size potentially obstructing my view forward. However, its compact design proved to be well-considered. It provided a clear view of the chartplotter without significantly impacting visibility ahead.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of use, the Scanstrut Rail Mounted Pod Compact has held up remarkably well. There are no signs of wear or fading from sun exposure. The pod remains securely mounted, even after several offshore trips in challenging conditions.
Maintenance has been minimal. A quick wipe down with a damp cloth is all that’s needed to keep it looking like new. The silicone seal appears to be holding up well, preventing any water ingress.
Compared to previous attempts at mounting electronics on my boat, the Scanstrut Rail Mounted Pod Compact far outperforms them. It provides a level of security, adjustability, and aesthetic appeal that I haven’t experienced before. It’s a significant upgrade to my boat’s navigation system.
Breaking Down the Features of Scanstrut Rail Mounted Pod Compact
Specifications
The Scanstrut Rail Mounted Pod Compact is designed to accommodate displays up to 8 inches. It is compatible with pedestal rails ranging from 25mm to 33.7mm (0.98 to 1.33 inches). The color is black, and it is manufactured by Scanstrut.
The pod is constructed with an inner bracing plate. This secures the deck base to the pod, enhancing rigidity and preventing damage from shock and vibration. The use of injection molded ABS inserts allows for easy and repeated servicing. These features contribute to the pod’s overall strength, durability, and ease of maintenance.
Performance & Functionality
The Scanstrut Rail Mounted Pod Compact excels at providing a secure and adjustable mounting solution for marine electronics. The ability to adjust the viewing angle is a major plus, ensuring optimal visibility in various conditions. The internal cable routing keeps wiring tidy and protected from the elements.
The pod’s primary strength lies in its robust construction and secure rail mounting system. While installation requires careful alignment, the end result is a stable and professional-looking installation. One minor area for improvement could be clearer instructions for cutting the pod to accommodate specific display sizes.
Overall, the Scanstrut Rail Mounted Pod Compact meets and exceeds expectations. It delivers on its promise of providing a secure, adjustable, and aesthetically pleasing mounting solution for marine electronics. It significantly enhances the functionality and appearance of the boat’s helm.
Design & Ergonomics
The Scanstrut Rail Mounted Pod Compact boasts a clean and functional design. Its black color blends seamlessly with most boat interiors, while its compact size minimizes obstruction of view. The materials used feel high-quality and durable, suggesting long-term resistance to the harsh marine environment.
The pod is relatively user-friendly, although installation requires careful attention to detail. The adjustable viewing angle is a welcome feature, allowing for customized positioning of the display. The internal cable routing contributes to a neat and organized installation.
Durability & Maintenance
The Scanstrut Rail Mounted Pod Compact is built to last. Its UV-resistant materials and robust construction suggest excellent resistance to the elements. The silicone seal provides reliable protection against water ingress.
Maintenance is straightforward. A simple wipe down with a damp cloth is typically sufficient to keep the pod looking its best. The durable materials used should resist wear and tear, ensuring long-term reliability.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Scanstrut Rail Mounted Pod Compact comes supplied uncut. This allows for customization to fit a wide range of displays up to 8 inches. The product is compatible with standard pedestal rails ranging from 25mm to 33.7mm.
While the pod itself does not offer extensive customization options, its design allows for the integration of various marine electronics. The ability to route cables internally further enhances the cleanliness and professionalism of the installation.
Pros and Cons of Scanstrut Rail Mounted Pod Compact
Pros
- Provides a secure and stable mounting platform for marine electronics.
- Adjustable viewing angle ensures optimal visibility.
- Durable construction and UV-resistant materials for long-term reliability.
- Internal cable routing keeps wiring tidy and protected.
- Relatively easy installation on standard pedestal rails.
Cons
- Relatively high price point compared to some alternative mounting solutions.
- Cutting the pod to fit specific displays may require some skill and precision.
Who Should Buy Scanstrut Rail Mounted Pod Compact?
The Scanstrut Rail Mounted Pod Compact is perfect for sailboat owners, powerboat enthusiasts, and professional mariners seeking a high-quality and reliable mounting solution for their marine electronics. It is particularly well-suited for those who value a clean, professional-looking installation and require a secure and adjustable mounting platform.
Those on a very tight budget or those who require a highly customized mounting solution may want to explore alternative options. If a basic, utilitarian mount is sufficient, there are less expensive choices available.
A must-have accessory is a quality hole saw set for cutting the pod to the correct dimensions for the display. Patience and careful measurement are also essential for a successful installation.
Conclusion on Scanstrut Rail Mounted Pod Compact
The Scanstrut Rail Mounted Pod Compact is a well-designed and well-built mounting solution for marine electronics. It provides a secure, adjustable, and aesthetically pleasing platform for displays up to 8 inches. Its durable construction and user-friendly design make it a worthwhile investment for boaters seeking a professional and reliable mounting solution.
The price may be higher than some alternatives, but the quality and features justify the cost. It’s a premium product that delivers on its promises.
I would personally recommend the Scanstrut Rail Mounted Pod Compact to anyone looking for a top-tier mounting solution for their marine electronics. It’s a solid investment that will enhance the functionality and appearance of your boat’s helm. Upgrade your boating experience today with the Scanstrut Rail Mounted Pod Compact!