Sierra International 781683060P Speedo Gps Arctic 60 Mph Review

Let’s Dive into Sierra International 781683060P Speedo Gps Arctic 60 Mph

The Sierra International 781683060P Speedo Gps Arctic 60 Mph is a GPS speedometer designed for boats. It provides accurate speed over ground readings and heading information. This unit comes from Sierra International, a well-known name in marine instrumentation, and is designed to be compatible with various boat styles, particularly those operating at slower speeds or where traditional pitot tubes struggle. Its accuracy and ease of use make it an attractive option for boaters looking to upgrade their instrumentation.

I had been wrestling with inaccurate readings from my old pitot tube speedometer for years. The darn thing would get clogged with weeds and give me wildly inconsistent speeds, especially at lower speeds when I was trying to navigate shallow waters. After one too many close calls running aground, I decided I needed a reliable, GPS-based solution, leading me directly to the Sierra International 781683060P Speedo Gps Arctic 60 Mph.

My initial unboxing experience was positive. The gauge felt solid and well-constructed. The arctic white face with black lettering offered a clean, modern look, and the overall weight suggested quality components inside.

I considered several alternatives, including the Garmin GPSMAP 78sc and the Lowrance HOOK2 4x Bullet Skimmer. However, both were full-fledged chartplotters with features I didn’t need, and at a much higher price point. The Sierra International unit promised accurate speed and heading in a dedicated, easy-to-install package, which was exactly what I was after.

My first impression was one of cautious optimism. I was excited by the promise of accurate speed readings, but skeptical about how easy it would be to integrate with my boat’s existing systems. Would it live up to the hype and finally solve my speedometer woes, or would it be another frustrating boat accessory collecting dust in my garage?

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Real-World Testing: Putting Sierra International 781683060P Speedo Gps Arctic 60 Mph to the Test

First Use Experience

I installed the Sierra International 781683060P Speedo Gps Arctic 60 Mph on my 22-foot pontoon boat. I primarily use this boat for leisurely cruises on a local lake and for fishing. The installation process was straightforward, though I did have to purchase a separate GPS antenna as the unit doesn’t include one.

The first test run was on a slightly overcast day with moderate chop. The speedometer locked onto the GPS signal quickly and provided steady, accurate speed readings. It was remarkably consistent, even at low speeds around 3-5 mph when I was navigating near the shoreline.

It took almost no time to get accustomed to reading the GPS speed. Initially, the LCD heading display was a bit distracting, but I soon realized how helpful it was for maintaining a straight course, especially in windy conditions. I did not encounter any major issues, just pleasant surprise.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of use, the Sierra International 781683060P Speedo Gps Arctic 60 Mph has proven to be incredibly reliable. Even after being exposed to sun, rain, and the occasional splash of lake water, it continues to perform flawlessly. There are no signs of fading or corrosion on the arctic white face.

The gauge has held up remarkably well. The lens is still clear, and there are no noticeable scratches or cracks. I occasionally wipe it down with a damp cloth to remove any water spots or debris.

Maintenance is minimal. I periodically check the wiring connections to ensure they are secure, and that’s about it. Compared to the constant cleaning and adjustments required by my old pitot tube speedometer, the Sierra International unit is a dream. It far outperforms my previous experiences.

Breaking Down the Features of Sierra International 781683060P Speedo Gps Arctic 60 Mph

Specifications

The Sierra International 781683060P Speedo Gps Arctic 60 Mph has a few key specifications to note. The speed range is 0-60 mph, making it ideal for slower vessels like pontoon boats or sailboats. It also has an LCD heading display to show course over ground.

This speedometer can use an external GPS antenna (sold separately) or connect to an existing NMEA 0183 GPS device. The unit provides speed accuracy of +/-1 MPH (once moving) and heading accuracy of +/-1 degree (once moving). The speed range is perfect for my pontoon boat, as I rarely exceed 30 mph. The accuracy of the GPS reading is a significant improvement over traditional speedometers.

Performance & Functionality

The Sierra International 781683060P Speedo Gps Arctic 60 Mph excels at its primary function: providing accurate speed and heading information. The speed readings are consistent and reliable, even at low speeds or in choppy water. The heading display is also a valuable tool for navigation, particularly in open water.

The strengths are definitely its accuracy and ease of use. The speedometer is simple to install and operate. The weakness would be the requirement of a separate GPS antenna, which increases the initial cost. It exceeds my expectations because of its reliability.

Design & Ergonomics

The arctic white face with black lettering is easy to read in various lighting conditions. The gauge has a clean, modern aesthetic that blends well with my boat’s console. It has good build quality and appears durable.

The gauge is user-friendly, and has a simple interface. There is minimal learning curve. The size and weight are appropriate for a marine instrument, making it easy to handle and install.

Durability & Maintenance

The Sierra International 781683060P Speedo Gps Arctic 60 Mph appears to be well-built and designed to withstand the harsh marine environment. The materials are corrosion-resistant, and the lens is made of durable plastic. With proper care, it should last for many years.

It’s easy to maintain and repair. Routine cleaning with a damp cloth is all that’s typically required. The simple design makes it relatively easy to troubleshoot any potential issues.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Sierra International 781683060P Speedo Gps Arctic 60 Mph doesn’t come with many accessories. The main item to purchase separately is a GPS antenna. However, it is compatible with a wide range of NMEA 0183 GPS devices.

There aren’t many customization options available for this particular gauge. However, you can choose from different Sierra International gauge styles to match your boat’s aesthetic. The compatibility with standard NMEA 0183 GPS devices allows for some flexibility in terms of GPS antenna selection.

Pros and Cons of Sierra International 781683060P Speedo Gps Arctic 60 Mph