Bracket for mounting RAM ball [Archive]

Strombone

06-21-2009, 10:03 PM

9/16/09 - Mounts are still available, I've had several people ask recently. Still $30.00 shipped to US and Canada. Send me a PM if interested.

I've been lurking around for a while, appreciate all the information I've read and ideas to improve the Wee experience.

I asked a friend to make me a bracket to mount a 3/8" stud RAM Ball under the windshield on my Wee (I've got a MadStad installed) so I could mount my GPS. He made two so I'm putting the extra up for sale here. It's made of 3/8" aluminum and anodized black. You will receive the bracket and two cap screws to mount it using the MadStad bracket. You'll need to add a 3/8" stud RAM ball. RAM part # RAM-B-236U.

I'm thinking $30.00 including shipping. PM me if your interested.

Tom

7/21/09 Since there was some interest we have made a few more mounts (25) that we'll offer for sale at the same price $30.00 shipped USPS. These are available for shipping now. If these sell out it may take a few weeks to get more made up. Sorry but we're just a couple guys doing this on the side.

Send me a PM with your email address if you'd like to buy one.

I think I've sent everyone who expressed an interest a PM.

Thanks, Tom
8709

8710

8711

8712

The Golden Monkey

06-21-2009, 10:13 PM

PM done sent.

ktmmule

06-21-2009, 10:38 PM

Can I be 2nd in line?

Satch

06-21-2009, 11:47 PM

Better have your buddy make some more...I'd like to be 3rd in line!

fatalerror

06-22-2009, 06:21 PM

I would be interested also

cmastrom

07-13-2009, 11:15 PM

I too am interested in the ram mount mount :-)

acududeman

07-14-2009, 05:53 AM

Keep me posted if you make more. It looks good!

Shooter

07-14-2009, 10:44 AM

I'll buy one. Have cash, will send.:D

Banks C

07-15-2009, 03:28 AM

Put me in line also!!!!
:p

mattiboy

07-16-2009, 04:07 AM

I want one as well

:-)

MikeB

07-16-2009, 11:08 AM

What a great design. I'll be watching this thread with interest to see if the project grows into a commercial venture. It should.

smurph

07-21-2009, 01:09 AM

yup... better make some more :)

TFauch

07-24-2009, 09:46 PM

One please. PM sent.

Tim

TFauch

07-27-2009, 07:41 PM

Wow ! That was Fast.:var_40:

Thank you,
Tim

Strombone

07-27-2009, 10:41 PM

Wow ! That was Fast.:var_40:

Thank you,
Tim

Hope you enjoy it Tim! The postal service must have been having a good day!

squeegee

07-30-2009, 02:03 PM

Strombone

07-30-2009, 03:14 PM

You will receive the bracket and two cap screws to mount it using the MadStad bracket.
Tom

Tom,

Looks like you could use this WITHOUT a MADSTAD? Is it just screw length, or do you really need a Madtsad to use your bracket?-Thanks

Squeegee,

I'm a little embarrassed to to admit this but I'm not sure if it will work with the OE windshield or not. I've had my madstad on long enough that I've forgotten exactly how the OE shield was mounted.

Up until now I've been too lazy to take the madstad off and try the RAM mount with the OE. I suspect that it will work with the OE shield if the shield is in the position that leaves the correct threaded mounts free to install the RAM mount.

It's not screw length that concerns me, its the clearance between the windshield and the RAM mount which is 3/8" thick. That is why I've only said it will work with the madstad. I've had a couple of questions about this before you asked so I guess its time for me to get off my butt and give it a try.

I'll check it out and post the answer here!

Tom

updated;
Ok, I've tried to use the RAM ball mount with the OE windshield mount and it doesn't work well. There is enough clearance and but there is a bevel in the front of the OE windshield mount that makes the RAM ball mount look cobbled when installed.

I looks like this can be overcome using spacers between the RAM mount and the windshield mount. Longer screws will be required. I'll work on it and see if I can come up with something that will function and look good. I should have an answer by sometime next week.

Tom

StromTech

08-18-2009, 07:20 AM

Add one more please...Ian:)

TFauch

08-21-2009, 08:53 PM

This is a great set up for me using the Zumo 550. It's just above the directionals and with a quick glance you can get all the info you need.:D

Thank you,
Tim

Strombone

08-22-2009, 08:44 AM

Thanks for the positive remarks guys.

I've still got about 12 of these mounts made up and ready to ship if anyone is interested.

If anyone would like to use this mount with the OEM windshield bracket I've got some spacers that will allow it to work with the sheild in the middle and high position. Send me a email at tom52@att.net for more information.

Tom

Mr Weebles

08-27-2009, 08:29 PM

Tom, I just got mine tonight. Thanks for such quick shipping! The part looks awesome.

I'll install it tomorrow and let you know how it works.

Strombone

08-27-2009, 09:13 PM

Mr. Weebles,
I'm glad you like the way it looks, I hope you'll find it works even better than expected. I think the anodized AL is a nice match for the bike and is more durable than powercoating. I've got no vibration with mine and welcome some ride reports on the thread. I've still got about 12 to sell and we'll make more it there is interest.

Tom

jayDL

08-27-2009, 09:31 PM

I'll take one.

PM sent

StromTech

08-27-2009, 09:55 PM

I'm still waiting for mine. Tom got it out the door very fast but the Pony Express over the Rockies into Canada is very slow. Still waiting for bracket I ordered the same day from Madstad too. Must be on the same stagecoach. Oh well, can't use one without the other. Ram parts were here in a day from GPS City in Alberta. Thank you Tom for guidance on what Ram Mount parts to order. Anyone in Canada, I highly recommend GPS City for Ram Mount and GPS needs.

StromTech

08-28-2009, 03:44 PM

Well the Canada Post Stage Coach delivered my Madstad bracket today. It's installed and adjusted. It sure makes a big difference. I adjusted the tension so I could make small position adjustments with one hand while riding. This way I got to try various positions at various speeds without stopping to make each adjustment. It was easy to do this and perfectly safe. I tightened everything up after I got home and parked.
So likley the second Rocky Mountain Stage Coach will bring me the Ram Mount on Monday. It would have made too much common sense to put them both on the same Stage...LOL

StromTech

09-02-2009, 10:15 AM

Tom...The Canada Stage Coach Line (aka Canada Post) delivered my mounting bracket yesterday. It's a real nice looking bracket and fit perfectly. It took all of 5 minutes to install with removing the winshield taking the most time. My Nuvi 550 shows up today. And thanks for your advice on the ram mount parts.

Thank you very much for a great product and fast shipping...Ian

cmastrom

09-16-2009, 09:23 PM

do you still have these available?

Strombone

09-16-2009, 11:22 PM

do you still have these available?

cmastrom,

There are still mounts available! PM and email sent. Thanks for asking.

Tom

cmastrom

09-21-2009, 09:56 PM

that was quick thanks

vegashotwheeler

09-21-2009, 10:06 PM

Will this work with a pat walsh dash??????????
I also have the givi windshield and a madstad if that info is necessary.
Thanks
Mike

Strombone

09-22-2009, 09:05 AM

Will this work with a pat walsh dash??????????
I also have the givi windshield and a madstad if that info is necessary.
Thanks
Mike

Mike,

This mount should work fine with the givi as long as you have a madstad. I'm not sure if it will work with the pat walsh shelf, I'm pretty sure it will not. From the pictures on the pat walsh site it looks like the shelf and the RAM ball will interfere with each other.

Tom

vegashotwheeler

09-22-2009, 09:16 AM

Thanks for the reply.
Anyone close to Vegas to see if the 2 will work together????????
Mike

LordSmoke

09-22-2009, 09:52 AM

Will this work with a pat walsh dash??????????
I also have the givi windshield and a madstad if that info is necessary.
Thanks
Mike

I'm interested in the answer, too. I have the Give+Madstad+PW shelf. There looks to be lots of room between where the bracket would be and the Givi. So, maybe if one mounted the ball on the other side...

krussell

09-22-2009, 10:22 AM

LordSmoke

09-22-2009, 11:27 AM

I have the Madstad + Stock Shield + Richland Rick GPS Mount. I recently purchased a Pat Walsh shelf, and it does not work with the GPS Mount. The RAM ball interferes with the shelf. I tried reversing the RAM ball, but it interferes with the shield. I suspect this gps mount would have the same issue, they are similar designs. I suspect there is a workaround. My current thinking is a different GPS mount that moves the ball higher, perhaps simply bolting the handlebar clamp ball component to the GPS mount. It's one of a few things on my list to attempt.
Thanks, my default idea was to mount a ram mount on the PW shelf. PW said he had heard of people doing that and it worked fine, but the PW shelf is only held on my two small screws, so I would prefer a more stable mount for the GPS. Direct mount should work. I will report when the time comes - still a ways off.

greywolf

09-22-2009, 11:46 AM

I'm going to do a little post on stiffening the PW shelf later today.

vegashotwheeler

09-22-2009, 11:52 AM

very interested in this since my Zumo is mounted to the shelf.
But think I will order this mount and see if the 2 work together, worst case is sell the mount.
Mike
I'm going to do a little post on stiffening the PW shelf later today.

Strombone

09-22-2009, 02:40 PM

RAM makes a tabbed ball mount that you might be able to bolt on that will raise the ball up and maybe over the pat walsh shelf enough to make the two work together. This might work with the Richland Rick / Pat Walsh combo also. The RAM part number is RAM-B-252U, http://www.ram-mount.com/CatalogResults/PartDetails/tabid/63/partid/082065077045066045050053050085/Default.aspx

The top hole in our mount is tapped for 3/8" -16 bolts and is 3/8" thick. I'm thinking this tabbed ball mount could be bolted right on. Like most things, you can modify it to make it work. When I answered the original question I was thinking of using the mount as it was intended. Now if you want to start adding parts or modifications, my answer is, yea you'll be able to get it to work.

Mike, if you order one to try with your pat walsh shelf there's no need to sell it. You can return it (in good condition) and I'll refund your money, you just pay the return shipping. I don't have the shelf or I'd try it myself.

Tom

vegashotwheeler

10-05-2009, 12:59 PM

Finally got around to ordering the ram mount parts this morning from gpscity.com.
Should be here by wednesday and can start installing then.
Will send pics of it mounted.
Mike

vegashotwheeler

10-07-2009, 08:34 PM

Here is some pics with the shelf
http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2539/3991680796_247c241de7.jpg
http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3425/3991681854_e3e6a0c9b2.jpg
http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2485/3991680964_c1ffeaa84c.jpg
I went with the Ram Mount medium length arm and RAM-B-252U, I like how it positions the GPS high and closer too me.
The only improvement I could see for using the mount with the shelf is if the threaded mount position on your plate was at the same height as the ball is with the RAM-B-252U tab piece.
That would mean making a whole new mount just for those with the shelf, with the new threaded hole 1 1/2 inches higher from center.
And would be a pain in the ass to keep 2 different laying around.
I like it, but will monitor the strength of the Ram tab piece as it appears to be pot metal.
If you ever make a new mount for working with the extension let me know I want it.
Or if the buyer wanted cut a notch in the back of the shelf to allow the arm through.
I may do this later on down the road.
But just put the Carbon Fiber vinyl on the shelf and its a little pricey to rip off and start again.
Very nice quality mount you have come up with here.
Mike

vegashotwheeler

10-07-2009, 09:28 PM

More input.
I noticed I had some room with the windshield remounted, so disassembled and tried with the original ball mount you used.
I reversed the side so ball is towards windshield.
This will work IF you keep your madstad pushed all the way out, which I do not like that position.
So going back to the way it was in the pics.
Mike

Strombone

10-09-2009, 09:16 PM

Mike thanks for the follow-up on using the RAM ball mount with the shelf. Let me know if the RAM ball mount you are using is not strong enough maybe we can get something made to work in a similar way only stronger and anodized. I hope it continues to work out for you.

Tom

vegashotwheeler

10-09-2009, 10:58 PM

Boy do I wish I had access to the machinery to do this kind of stuff.:headbang:
Like I said in the original post if you ever do another design let me know, I like your work.
Mike

acududeman

10-10-2009, 02:31 PM

Strombone,

I too have the PW shelf + Madstad (and Cee Bailey screen). I'd take one of your modified brackets in a heartbeat should you decide to go for it. Thanks for offering this cool product!

regards, reid.

gijoecam

11-10-2009, 01:42 PM

Just tuning in... what was the verdict on making these work with the stock windshield mount? I've got the stock mount with a National Cycle VStream shield (which has a bit more clearance up the middle than the stock shield), and was considering making a bracket just like this for my winter project, but for $30, it's probably not worth the effort. My concern was how to make the bracket work with the recessed holes of the stock bracket. I saw that the Touratech mount (I think?) had a couple of solid spacers that go in there, so maybe something similar will work?

The Golden Monkey

11-10-2009, 08:10 PM

After having it a few months, I like this mount, although there is enough vibration to make it less than ideal as a video mount. Perfect for GPS though. Only problem: the bolts that came with it have rusted -- gonna have to get some stainless ones.

Strombone

11-10-2009, 10:43 PM

gijoecam,

Your right it will work with some spacers in the OEM mount but it does not work very well with the OEM mount in the lowest position. If you'd like a mount with the spacers to use with the OEM equipment send me a PM. It might take me a few days to respond I've got a trip planned.

Golden Monkey,

I've got the same problem with the cap screws I supplied with the mount, rust, my season is about done here in Michigan so I'm taking the mount off for the winter and I'll be using stainless next year. Sorry for the poor quality screws. It is very unsightly.

Tom

gijoecam

11-11-2009, 08:56 AM

I don't have the bike hear today, but if my memory serves, I've got the mount up one position off the bottom... I'll probably just make my own though... Things are kind of slow here at work right now, and I've got a couple other ideas in mind for how I want to mount things to it.

mark444

11-11-2009, 10:04 AM

I have an ample supply of SS allenhead socket screws in the M6 size......lengths from 10mm to 65mm.........let me know what you need and I'll fix you up (cheaply). Or, you can find them easily at Mcmaster.com, but you will have to buy a box full....not just one or two.
mark444

gijoecam

11-11-2009, 10:42 AM