[Rhodes22-list] R22 Instrumentation

[DCLewis1 at aol.com]

Folks,
 
We are in the midst of trying to get our R22 equipped while it’s still at  
GBI and the matter of instrumentation has come up.   The purpose of  this Email 
is to solicit input regarding what works.
 
Our current plan is to have a depth finder (Humminbird Mk17?) and bulkhead  
compass mounted on the exterior cabin wall.  Questions:
- Both  instruments seem to me to be far from the tiller.  In your experience 
can  you meaningfully use instruments mounted on the cabin (I realize this 
may be a  function of your farsightedness, but any input is welcome.).   In  
particular, would a hand held compass be more useful than a bulkhead  compass?  
If you like a bulkhead compass, any specific recommendations  regarding models 
and types?  
- If these instruments are mounted  on the exterior, how do you keep them 
from walking away?  Has anyone had a  problem in this regard?
- I understand the Mk17 has a bezel that facilitates  mounting.  I also think 
the Mk17 has a 1 year warranty that the display  will be waterproof.  But for 
the long term, how do you keep the Humminbird  (or any other) depth 
finder/GPS display secured and out of the weather when the  boat’s secured?  I haven’t 
identified a cap that would keep the sun and  precip off it and/or secure it 
- have I missed something?  I gather there  are a number of Humminbird users 
on the board, what do you do?  I believe  there are caps for bulkhead 
compasses, that protect them from the weather, and  provide some security, it that what 
you use?
 
I’m inclined to use a hand held GPS, just because it will be closer to  me.  
Also, it will be easily secured and I can take it home to program way  points 
etc.  The same GPS could act as a compass.  The alternative is  to use the 
Humminbird depth finder with a GPS driver - they make one - or  another bulkhead 
mounted GPS system.  The Humminbird will have a larger  display, but at the 
front of the cockpit.  Again, I’m not sure the  Humminbird can be secured or 
kept out of the weather, and I don’t think it will  be a simple matter to take it 
home to program a course, way points, etc.   Has anyone considered these 
trades and come to a decision as to the way to  proceed.  Better yet, does anyone 
have experience with hand held vice  bulkhead mounted GPS displays.
 
Thanks for any input.
 
Dave