How to Mount a Garmin StreetPilot with a RAM Adapter

Quick answer

To mount a Garmin StreetPilot c530, c550, or compatible model, use the RAM-HOL-GA22U adapter cradle. It attaches to any RAM mount with the universal AMPs hole pattern using the included hardware.

Installation steps

1. 1. Gather your components: Collect your Garmin StreetPilot, the RAM-HOL-GA22U cradle, the included two nuts and bolts, and a separate RAM mount base with an AMPs-compatible ball or arm. Make sure the mount base you plan to use has the standard AMPs hole pattern. Not all RAM bases use this pattern.
2. 2. Attach the cradle to the RAM mount base: Line up the holes on the RAM-HOL-GA22U with the AMPs pattern on your RAM mount arm or ball base. Insert the two bolts from the back and tighten the nuts finger-tight. Do not fully tighten yet. Over-tightening before aligning the cradle angle can crack the composite cradle. Leave it loose until you set the viewing angle.
3. 3. Snap the Garmin StreetPilot into the cradle: Press the GPS unit into the cradle until you hear a click. Ensure the device is fully seated and the cradle tabs lock around the edges. If the unit does not click, check that you are using the correct model. The cradle is not compatible with StreetPilot models outside the c530, c550, c580, i2, i3, and i5.
4. 4. Adjust the viewing angle and tighten hardware: Rotate the mount to your preferred angle, then fully tighten the two nuts with a wrench. Verify the GPS does not wobble or shift. A common mistake is leaving the bolts loose for later adjustment, which allows the cradle to vibrate loose while driving. Tighten fully after setting the angle.
5. 5. Route the power cable: Plug the Garmin power cable into the device and route it along the mount arm or behind the dash. Use cable clips if needed to keep it from dangling. Avoid pinching the cable between the cradle and the mount base. This can damage the wire over time.

Product details

• RAM® Adapter for Garmin StreetPilot c530, c550, c580, i2, i3 & i5: The RAM-HOL-GA22U consists of a high strength composite cradle and hole pattern that allows attachment to all RAM components or mounts containing the universal AMPs hole pattern. This means the adapter works with nearly any existing RAM mounting system, so you only need to buy the cradle, not a whole new mount.