RAM Fish Finder Mounts: Double Ball vs Pin-Lock vs Track Ball
By RAM Mounts Google Search | Published: 2026-11-01
Category: Buying Guides
Compare RAM double ball, Pin-Lock, and Track Ball fish finder mounts by mounting surface, security needs, and adjustability so you pick the right base the first time.
Quick answer
Choose the composite double ball mount for simple, low-cost flat-surface installs, the Pin-Lock marine electronic mount when theft or vibration is a concern, and the Track Ball mount when you want to slide the fish finder along a track. Match the base to your boat first; the ball system is secondary.
Mounting surface decides more than the arm
All three mounts use RAM's 1-inch rubber ball and socket system, so articulation feels similar. The real difference is how each base attaches: a 2.5-inch round base with the universal AMPs hole pattern, a 6.25 x 2-inch rectangle plate with pre-drilled hole combinations, or a Track Ball base that slides into a track system such as RAM Tough-Track. Measure your dash, console, or gunwale before comparing arms.
A round base needs a flat area wide enough for its footprint and access behind the surface for fasteners. A rectangle plate spreads load across a larger area and offers more hole positions, but RAM notes that some devices may still need additional holes drilled. A track base only works if you already have a compatible track or plan to add one.
Security and vibration: when Pin-Lock earns its price
The Pin-Lock marine electronic mount adds a mixed-combination security nut and key knob to the double socket arm. That matters on open boats, at busy ramps, or on rough water where a standard tension knob can loosen or be quickly undone. The trade-off is extra handling every time you remove or reposition the unit, and a higher catalog price than the composite double ball mount.
If your fish finder stays on a sheltered boat and you mainly adjust it once per trip, the Pin-Lock hardware may be more security than you need. If you trailer frequently or leave electronics mounted between trips, the locking arm is the more practical choice.
Track systems: convenience with an installation prerequisite
The Track Ball marine electronic mount connects to any track system, including RAM Tough-Track, and pairs that base with a standard-length double socket arm and a 6.25 x 2-inch rectangle plate. The payoff is sliding the fish finder to a different position without unbolting anything, which suits center consoles and kayak layouts where space changes between fishing and running.
The catch is that the track itself is a separate installation. If you do not already have a track, factor in the cost and drilling for that before choosing this mount. On a small dash with no room for a track, a fixed round or rectangle base is simpler.
Decision rules for choosing your RAM fish finder mount
- If you have a flat, accessible surface and a compatible device: Choose the composite double ball mount. Its 2.5-inch round base with AMPs pattern and included Humminbird/Eagle/Lowrance base covers many common fish finders at the lowest catalog price of the three. Check that your device matches the included connecting base before ordering.
- If theft, trailering, or heavy vibration is a concern: Choose the Pin-Lock marine electronic mount. The security nut and key knob lock the arm, and the 6.25 x 2-inch rectangle plate offers multiple hole positions for a wide range of electronics. Budget for the higher price and accept slower removal when you want the locking arm.
- If you already have a track or plan to add one: Choose the Track Ball marine electronic mount. It slides along RAM Tough-Track or any compatible track, and the rectangle plate supports a wide range of fish finders and chartplotters. Confirm track compatibility and installation space before buying; the track is not included.
- If your device is not listed and the plate holes do not line up: Treat drilling as a possible step. RAM states that additional holes may need to be drilled on the rectangle plate for proper fit in certain applications; the round base relies on its AMPs pattern instead. Dry-fit the plate to your device before drilling.
Product facts
- RAM® Composite Double Ball Mount for Humminbird Piranha + More: Composite 2.5-inch round base with universal AMPs hole pattern, double socket arm, and Humminbird/Eagle/Lowrance connecting base. A direct fit for many Humminbird Piranha and similar units makes this the lowest-cost starting point when your device matches the included base.
RAM® Composite Double Ball Mount for Humminbird Piranha + More - RAM® Pin-Lock™ Marine Electronic Mount - C Size Medium: Includes a 6.25 x 2-inch rectangle base, standard-length double socket arm, and RAM mixed-combination Pin-Lock security nut and key knob. The locking arm deters casual removal, while the rectangle plate's multiple hole locations fit a broad range of electronics.
RAM® Pin-Lock™ Marine Electronic Mount - C Size Medium - RAM® Track Ball™ Marine Electronic Mount: Track Ball base attaches to any track system including RAM Tough-Track, with a standard-length double socket arm and 6.25 x 2-inch rectangle plate. You get sliding repositioning and a wide device-fit plate, but only if a compatible track is already installed or added.
Who each mount suits
Best for
- Anglers with a flat dash or console and a Humminbird, Eagle, or Lowrance unit that matches the included base
- Boaters who want a low-cost, simple fixed mount with tool-free angle adjustment
- Owners of track-equipped boats or kayaks who want to slide electronics between positions
Not for
- Boaters who need a locking arm and leave electronics mounted unattended
- Installations without a flat surface or behind-panel access for fasteners
- Boats with no compatible track and no room to add one
