Let’s Talk About Scanstrut ROKK Top Plate f/Garmin GPSMAP 700/7000 Series & echoMAP 70s, 7 & 9 Series
As someone who’s spent over a decade outfitting boats and advising anglers and mariners, I’ve seen my share of mounting solutions, the good, the bad, and the downright flimsy. The Scanstrut ROKK Top Plate f/Garmin GPSMAP 700/7000 Series & echoMAP 70s, 7 & 9 Series promises a secure and adaptable platform for your valuable Garmin electronics. It is designed to be a modular solution allowing for the installation of fishfinders and chartplotters in various locations on a boat.
My primary motivation for exploring this particular top plate stemmed from a recent boat refit project. The owner wanted to upgrade his older Garmin GPSMAP unit to a newer model from the 7000 series, and the existing mount was simply inadequate, offering neither the stability nor the aesthetic appeal the new display deserved.
Upon unboxing the Scanstrut ROKK Top Plate f/Garmin GPSMAP 700/7000 Series & echoMAP 70s, 7 & 9 Series, I was immediately impressed by the build quality. The black finish is sleek and professional. Its weight felt substantial without being cumbersome, inspiring confidence that it could handle the rigors of marine use.
Compared to some of the universal mounting brackets I’ve worked with in the past, this Scanstrut plate offers a level of precision and model-specific compatibility that’s hard to beat. Generic mounts often require a lot of fiddling and compromise, leaving me with a less-than-perfect installation. This dedicated solution looked like it would provide a far cleaner and more secure fit.
My first impression was definitely positive. It seemed like a well-engineered piece of kit that addressed a common pain point: securely and attractively mounting marine electronics. I was excited to see how it would perform in the field.
Real-World Testing: Putting Scanstrut ROKK Top Plate f/Garmin GPSMAP 700/7000 Series & echoMAP 70s, 7 & 9 Series to the Test
First Use Experience
The initial test involved mounting a Garmin GPSMAP 7607 on a center console fishing boat used primarily in the choppy waters of the Gulf Coast. This environment demanded a rock-solid mounting solution to withstand constant vibrations and impacts from waves. Installation was straightforward, aligning perfectly with the pre-drilled holes on the GPSMAP 7607.
During the first few outings, which included both calm days and moderately rough conditions with winds gusting to 20 knots, the Scanstrut ROKK Top Plate performed admirably. The display remained firmly in place. There was no unwanted movement or rattling.
I appreciated the ease of adjusting the viewing angle thanks to the ROKK modular system. This allowed the captain to optimize the display for different lighting conditions and seating positions.
The only minor issue I encountered was the need to slightly tighten the adjustment screws after the first rough trip, but this was easily remedied and hasn’t been a problem since.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of continuous use, the Scanstrut ROKK Top Plate has proven to be exceptionally durable. There are no signs of significant wear and tear, even after exposure to salt spray, UV radiation, and the occasional fish slime. The black finish has held up well. There is no fading or discoloration.
Cleaning the plate is a breeze. A simple wipe-down with soap and water is all it takes to remove any accumulated grime.
Compared to previous mounting solutions I’ve used that began to loosen or corrode within a season or two, this Scanstrut product is a clear winner. It’s a testament to its quality construction and materials. I can confidently say that it outperforms many of its competitors in terms of longevity and reliability.
Breaking Down the Features of Scanstrut ROKK Top Plate f/Garmin GPSMAP 700/7000 Series & echoMAP 70s, 7 & 9 Series
Specifications
The Scanstrut ROKK Top Plate f/Garmin GPSMAP 700/7000 Series & echoMAP 70s, 7 & 9 Series is specifically designed to accommodate the following Garmin units: GPSMAP 700 series, GPSMAP 7000 series, echoMAP 70s, echoMAP 7 series, and echoMAP 9 series, as well as the GPSMAP 7407 and 7607 models. It is black in color. It is manufactured by Scanstrut.
The key specification here is compatibility. The fact that this top plate is engineered specifically for these Garmin units ensures a perfect fit and optimal performance. This eliminates the guesswork and potential instability associated with universal mounts.
Performance & Functionality
The primary function of the Scanstrut ROKK Top Plate is to provide a secure and stable mounting platform for your Garmin display. In this regard, it excels. It allows for quick and easy adjustments to the viewing angle. This is crucial for maintaining optimal visibility in changing light conditions and from different positions on the boat.
The strength of this product lies in its simplicity and effectiveness. It’s a well-designed piece of hardware that performs its intended function without fuss. The only minor weakness, as mentioned earlier, is the potential need for occasional tightening of the adjustment screws, but this is a minor inconvenience.
Overall, the Scanstrut ROKK Top Plate meets and exceeds expectations for a dedicated mounting solution. It’s a reliable and robust platform that inspires confidence.
Design & Ergonomics
The Scanstrut ROKK Top Plate boasts a sleek and functional design. It is constructed from high-quality materials that feel substantial and durable. Its weight is well-balanced.
The design is user-friendly. Installation is straightforward. Adjusting the viewing angle is intuitive. There is minimal learning curve.
Durability & Maintenance
Given its robust construction and quality materials, the Scanstrut ROKK Top Plate is built to last. It is designed to withstand the harsh marine environment.
Maintenance is minimal. A simple wipe-down with soap and water is all that’s required to keep it looking and performing its best.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Scanstrut ROKK Top Plate itself is a component of the larger ROKK modular mounting system. This means that it can be combined with other ROKK accessories, such as extension arms and base mounts, to create a fully customized mounting solution.
It is also compatible with standard mounting hardware. This allows for further customization and integration with existing boat setups.
Pros and Cons of Scanstrut ROKK Top Plate f/Garmin GPSMAP 700/7000 Series & echoMAP 70s, 7 & 9 Series
Pros
- Specifically designed for Garmin GPSMAP 700/7000 Series & echoMAP 70s, 7 & 9 Series, ensuring a perfect fit.
- Robust construction and high-quality materials for exceptional durability in marine environments.
- Easy to install and adjust, providing a user-friendly experience.
- Sleek and professional design that enhances the look of any boat.
- Modular design compatible with other ROKK accessories, allowing for customization.
Cons
- Requires occasional tightening of adjustment screws in very rough conditions.
- Model-specific design limits use to compatible Garmin units only.
Who Should Buy Scanstrut ROKK Top Plate f/Garmin GPSMAP 700/7000 Series & echoMAP 70s, 7 & 9 Series?
The Scanstrut ROKK Top Plate is perfect for boat owners and professional mariners who want a secure, reliable, and aesthetically pleasing mounting solution for their compatible Garmin GPS and fishfinder units. It is especially beneficial for those who operate in rough waters or frequently adjust their display viewing angle.
This product might not be the best choice for individuals who own Garmin units outside the specified compatibility range or prefer a more universal mounting option.
A must-have accessory to complement this top plate is a compatible Scanstrut ROKK base mount. This will allow you to create a complete and fully functional mounting system.
Conclusion on Scanstrut ROKK Top Plate f/Garmin GPSMAP 700/7000 Series & echoMAP 70s, 7 & 9 Series
The Scanstrut ROKK Top Plate f/Garmin GPSMAP 700/7000 Series & echoMAP 70s, 7 & 9 Series is a well-engineered and highly effective mounting solution. It is designed for specific Garmin marine electronics. It provides a secure, stable, and visually appealing platform for your valuable equipment.
At $33.99, the price is more than justified given the quality of construction and the peace of mind it offers knowing your electronics are safely mounted.
I would wholeheartedly recommend this product to anyone seeking a premium mounting solution for their compatible Garmin GPS or fishfinder. Invest in the Scanstrut ROKK Top Plate and enjoy a worry-free boating experience with your electronics securely in place.