Let’s Talk About NavPod GP2516 SystemPod Pre-Cut f/Simrad NSS7 evo2 or B&G Zeus& 178; 7 & 1 Instrument f/12″ Wide Guard
As a seasoned outdoor and tactical gear specialist, I’ve seen my fair share of mounting solutions for marine electronics, ranging from the elegantly simple to the frustratingly complex. The NavPod GP2516 SystemPod Pre-Cut f/Simrad NSS7 evo2 or B&G Zeus& 178; 7 & 1 Instrument f/12″ Wide Guard, manufactured by NavPod, immediately caught my eye with its promise of a clean, integrated, and robust solution for housing vital navigational equipment on sailboats. It’s designed to accommodate a Simrad NSS7 evo2 or B&G Zeus 7 chartplotter alongside a single instrument, specifically tailored for use with a 12″ wide guard system.
My personal challenge involved upgrading the aging electronics on my own sailboat, a 36-foot coastal cruiser, and I was specifically battling with the clutter and vulnerability of having multiple displays scattered around the cockpit. I was looking for a solution that would not only protect my investment in new electronics but also provide a streamlined and visually appealing helm setup.
Upon unboxing the NavPod, I was immediately struck by the solid feel of the acrylic-capped ABS plastic construction. The weight felt substantial, suggesting a durable and weather-resistant product, and the pre-cut openings appeared precise and clean. Compared to generic mounting brackets or DIY solutions I’d considered, the NavPod exuded a professional, purpose-built quality.
My initial excitement stemmed from the promise of a unified and protected electronics suite. I anticipated a significant improvement in both the aesthetics and functionality of my boat’s helm. This seemed like the perfect blend of protection and integration I had been searching for.
Real-World Testing: Putting NavPod GP2516 SystemPod Pre-Cut f/Simrad NSS7 evo2 or B&G Zeus& 178; 7 & 1 Instrument f/12″ Wide Guard to the Test
First Use Experience
My first test involved dry-fitting the Simrad NSS7 evo2 and a standard B&G Triton2 instrument into the NavPod on my boat. The fit was snug and precise, affirming the accuracy of the pre-cut design, and the integrated design was instantly appealing.
Testing spanned across various conditions, including a particularly blustery day on the Chesapeake Bay with intermittent rain and saltwater spray. The NavPod provided excellent protection from the elements, keeping the displays dry and easily readable, and I appreciated the peace of mind knowing my electronics were shielded from the harsh marine environment. I spent a good amount of time fiddling with the configuration, and found that the viewing angles were good from all parts of the cockpit.
I was immediately impressed with how cleanly it integrated the electronics into the helm. There were no surprises during the initial installation, and the pre-cut openings saved considerable time and effort.
Extended Use & Reliability
After six months of near-constant use, including a coastal cruise and numerous day sails, the NavPod has proven to be exceptionally durable. There are no signs of fading, cracking, or water intrusion, demonstrating the quality of the materials and construction.
The acrylic-capped ABS plastic has resisted scratches and stains remarkably well, even after repeated exposure to sunscreen, saltwater, and the occasional spilled beverage. Maintaining the NavPod is straightforward; a simple wash with soap and water keeps it looking like new. It still looks as good now as the day it was installed.
Compared to my previous setup, which involved exposed displays and makeshift rain covers, the NavPod is a significant upgrade. It has completely transformed the look and functionality of my helm. The visibility of the displays is also far superior.
Breaking Down the Features of NavPod GP2516 SystemPod Pre-Cut f/Simrad NSS7 evo2 or B&G Zeus& 178; 7 & 1 Instrument f/12″ Wide Guard
Specifications
The NavPod GP2516 SystemPod Pre-Cut f/Simrad NSS7 evo2 or B&G Zeus& 178; 7 & 1 Instrument f/12″ Wide Guard boasts several key specifications:
- Material: Acrylic-capped ABS plastic provides a robust and UV-resistant enclosure. This ensures long-term durability in harsh marine conditions.
- Pre-Cut Openings: Specifically designed for a Simrad NSS7 evo2 or B&G Zeus 7 chartplotter and one standard instrument. This simplifies installation and provides a clean, integrated look.
- Usable Face: 15.05″W x 6.25″H provides ample space for the electronics. This maximizes the viewing area while maintaining a compact footprint.
- Instrument Cutout: 3.6″ diameter. This ensures compatibility with a wide range of standard marine instruments.
- Fasteners: Chromed stainless steel tamper-proof fasteners add security and corrosion resistance. These details show attention to quality and longevity.
- Watertight Seal: A double seal provides exceptional protection against water intrusion. This is critical for the longevity of marine electronics.
- Mounting Hardware: Includes stainless steel mounting hardware and gaskets for secure installation. This adds value and ensures compatibility with various mounting configurations.
- Color: Black offers a sleek and classic aesthetic. This will match the helm of most boats.
These specifications are essential for a marine environment, providing protection from the elements, ease of installation, and long-term durability. The watertight seal and UV-resistant materials are particularly crucial for ensuring the longevity of expensive marine electronics.
Performance & Functionality
The NavPod GP2516 SystemPod Pre-Cut f/Simrad NSS7 evo2 or B&G Zeus& 178; 7 & 1 Instrument f/12″ Wide Guard excels in protecting and integrating marine electronics. It achieves this primarily through the solid construction, watertight seal, and thoughtful design.
The pre-cut openings ensure a precise fit for the specified electronics, eliminating the need for custom modifications and providing a clean, professional appearance. This also ensures good viewing angles for the displays. The only potential weakness lies in its specific compatibility; it’s designed for a specific set of electronics, limiting flexibility if you decide to switch brands or sizes in the future.
The NavPod meets and exceeds my expectations, providing a robust and aesthetically pleasing solution for housing my chartplotter and instrument. It offers a significant improvement over exposed displays or makeshift mounting solutions.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality is excellent, with the acrylic-capped ABS plastic feeling both durable and aesthetically pleasing. The weight provides a sense of solidity without being cumbersome.
The NavPod is user-friendly, thanks to the pre-cut openings and included mounting hardware. While some basic mechanical skills are required for installation, no specialized tools or expertise are necessary.
Durability & Maintenance
The NavPod GP2516 SystemPod Pre-Cut f/Simrad NSS7 evo2 or B&G Zeus& 178; 7 & 1 Instrument f/12″ Wide Guard is designed for long-term use in a harsh marine environment. The UV-resistant materials, stainless steel hardware, and watertight seal contribute to its longevity.
Maintaining the NavPod is simple, requiring only occasional cleaning with soap and water. There are no complex mechanisms or delicate components that require special care.
Accessories and Customization Options
The NavPod comes with stainless steel mounting hardware and gaskets. The design of the NavPod, however, is relatively fixed.
It’s primarily designed to integrate with standard 12″ wide guard systems. Due to the pre-cut openings, you can’t reconfigure the layout for different electronics.
Pros and Cons of NavPod GP2516 SystemPod Pre-Cut f/Simrad NSS7 evo2 or B&G Zeus& 178; 7 & 1 Instrument f/12″ Wide Guard
Pros
- Exceptional protection for expensive marine electronics from water, UV damage, and physical impact.
- Clean and professional aesthetic enhances the look of the boat’s helm.
- Pre-cut openings simplify installation and ensure a precise fit for compatible electronics.
- Durable construction using high-quality materials ensures long-term reliability.
- Watertight seal provides peace of mind in harsh marine conditions.
Cons
- Limited compatibility as it’s specifically designed for Simrad NSS7 evo2 or B&G Zeus 7 and a single instrument.
- Relatively expensive compared to generic mounting solutions.
Who Should Buy NavPod GP2516 SystemPod Pre-Cut f/Simrad NSS7 evo2 or B&G Zeus& 178; 7 & 1 Instrument f/12″ Wide Guard?
The NavPod GP2516 SystemPod Pre-Cut f/Simrad NSS7 evo2 or B&G Zeus& 178; 7 & 1 Instrument f/12″ Wide Guard is perfect for sailboat owners who want a clean, professional, and robust solution for housing their Simrad NSS7 evo2 or B&G Zeus 7 chartplotter and a single instrument within a 12″ wide guard system. It’s also great for those prioritizing protection and longevity of their marine electronics.
Anyone switching between different brands of chartplotters frequently should skip this product. Also, if you are on a tight budget, there are more affordable, albeit less integrated, mounting options available.
A must-have is a good quality marine sealant to ensure a watertight seal during installation. Also, consider a professional marine electrician for the install, especially if you are not confident with electrical work.
Conclusion on NavPod GP2516 SystemPod Pre-Cut f/Simrad NSS7 evo2 or B&G Zeus& 178; 7 & 1 Instrument f/12″ Wide Guard
The NavPod GP2516 SystemPod Pre-Cut f/Simrad NSS7 evo2 or B&G Zeus& 178; 7 & 1 Instrument f/12″ Wide Guard is a premium product that delivers on its promise of providing a clean, robust, and watertight enclosure for marine electronics. Its value lies in the protection it offers and its contribution to the overall aesthetics and functionality of the boat’s helm.
The price is justified for boat owners who value quality and are seeking a long-term solution. The NavPod is an investment in protecting expensive electronics and enhancing the overall sailing experience.
I would personally recommend the NavPod to any sailboat owner seeking a top-tier mounting solution for their Simrad or B&G electronics. If you value a professional look, durable construction, and peace of mind knowing your electronics are well-protected, then this product is definitely worth considering. Upgrade your sailing experience today with the NavPod GP2516 SystemPod!