Just bought a GPS
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Cruiser
Joined: Feb 2013
Posts: 130
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From: Kansas City
Just bought a GPS
I just purchased a Gamin Zumo 660LM gps. I have a 2009 Sportster xl1200 low. I want to have it installed in a keyed circut to have the ability to cut power to it when the bike is not running or the key is not on. I am not experienced with this kind of installation. First, what is involved in doing this and what is the best way to have it installed as I mentioned. Since I have no experience would it be a good idea to have a shop install it? I called the local Harley dealer and they will not install it since I did not purchase it from them so I might have to shop around to have it installed if it does not turn out to be a home project. Thanks!
Last edited by littledragon; May 7, 2014 at 01:42 PM.
Tourer
Joined: May 2012
Posts: 424
Likes: 4
From: EastCoast
Wont install it because you didnt buy from them? How unpro and shady/spiteful. I wouldnt give them any of your business at all personally.
If you aren't handy w electronics then yes, save a possibly fried harness and get a hand. My first thought would be a reputable auto stereo install place. Im sure more people here will have better ideas.
Id go "plug n play" so u can remove it easily avoiding theft.
If you aren't handy w electronics then yes, save a possibly fried harness and get a hand. My first thought would be a reputable auto stereo install place. Im sure more people here will have better ideas.
Id go "plug n play" so u can remove it easily avoiding theft.
I use a quick disconnect cigarette lighter that I plug into my battery charger line on the bike.
Road Warrior
Joined: Oct 2012
Posts: 1,374
Likes: 50
From: In the foothills of southwestern NC - US of A
Unfortunately *I think* all the "keyed" circuits are busy with their own devices that would make adding onto one of them an electric taxing issue on that circuit, which could lead to blown fuses/problemos/damage quite possibly to the bike [circuit] AND your GPS thingie.
An alternative would be to run a dedicated and properly fused illuminated switch/circuit from the 12v+ and - of your battery directly to the GPS's 12v+ and - electrical connections.
OR you could get a 12v cigarette lighter adapter that plugs directly into your battery tender plug [if you don't have one, they are simple and inexpensive to install and buy] and add an illuminated on/off switch close to your factory ignition switch as a reminder every time you turn the bike off.
If you're not comfortable with the wiring then by all means go to an independent shop in your area or like suggested above a stereo installation shop, and both should be able to hook you up in short order.
=8^)
An alternative would be to run a dedicated and properly fused illuminated switch/circuit from the 12v+ and - of your battery directly to the GPS's 12v+ and - electrical connections.
OR you could get a 12v cigarette lighter adapter that plugs directly into your battery tender plug [if you don't have one, they are simple and inexpensive to install and buy] and add an illuminated on/off switch close to your factory ignition switch as a reminder every time you turn the bike off.
If you're not comfortable with the wiring then by all means go to an independent shop in your area or like suggested above a stereo installation shop, and both should be able to hook you up in short order.
=8^)
Last edited by DrewBone; May 7, 2014 at 02:16 PM.
Grand HDF Member
Joined: Jul 2007
Posts: 4,007
Likes: 126
From: Manassas, VA
Why not use the ignition switch instead of a lighted switch? A relay with a fused line should supply safe power. Probably don't need a relay, either, but it's safer (rather than have any additional draw on the ignition switch, as if it matters).
Personally, I like the cigarette lighter power plug that connects to a Battery Tender pigtail. I've used one for years. My battery tender plug stays tucked behind the battery cover and the cigarette lighter plug can be thrown in your pocket or saddle bag when not in use. You could hard wire a plug and mount it, but I don't want too much extra stuff hanging off my bike. One advantage of a plug over hard wiring the GPS is having the lighter plug available to charge a cell phone, GoPro or MP3 player - anything that's 12V or USB (with an adapter for the lighter plug to USB, widely available).
If you want to wire it yourself, go for it. It's not rocket surgery. If you use crimp terminals, you won't need to know how to solder (soldering wires is fairly simple, too, and is the preferred method). Check Youtube. Crimping terminals onto the ends of wires is pretty basic. A crimper/stripper tool is maybe 20 bucks for a good one, and it'll last the rest of your life. Knowing how to use a 12V test light may be helpful, too. A test light has one wire. How complicated can it be? They're about 5 clams.
Ask specific questions when you get stumped.
EDIT: Looks like cHarley beat me to the ignition switch while I was typing.
Personally, I like the cigarette lighter power plug that connects to a Battery Tender pigtail. I've used one for years. My battery tender plug stays tucked behind the battery cover and the cigarette lighter plug can be thrown in your pocket or saddle bag when not in use. You could hard wire a plug and mount it, but I don't want too much extra stuff hanging off my bike. One advantage of a plug over hard wiring the GPS is having the lighter plug available to charge a cell phone, GoPro or MP3 player - anything that's 12V or USB (with an adapter for the lighter plug to USB, widely available).
If you want to wire it yourself, go for it. It's not rocket surgery. If you use crimp terminals, you won't need to know how to solder (soldering wires is fairly simple, too, and is the preferred method). Check Youtube. Crimping terminals onto the ends of wires is pretty basic. A crimper/stripper tool is maybe 20 bucks for a good one, and it'll last the rest of your life. Knowing how to use a 12V test light may be helpful, too. A test light has one wire. How complicated can it be? They're about 5 clams.
Ask specific questions when you get stumped.
EDIT: Looks like cHarley beat me to the ignition switch while I was typing.
Club Member
Joined: Feb 2007
Posts: 16,320
Likes: 306
From: Boynton Beach, FloriDuh
There's no need for a relay, a GPS only draws milliamps. Wire it straight to the switched ignition circuit.
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Advanced
Joined: May 2012
Posts: 66
Likes: 1
From: Willow Grove, PA Turnpike, Exit 343
Is this Garmin power cable helpful in anyway?
http://www.gpscity.com/garmin-usb-po...html#questions
I bought/wired Garmin 5v mini-USB plugs #010-11131-10 to all three of my motorcycles. Then I mount my GPS on whatever I'm driving that day.
http://www.gpscity.com/garmin-usb-po...html#questions
I bought/wired Garmin 5v mini-USB plugs #010-11131-10 to all three of my motorcycles. Then I mount my GPS on whatever I'm driving that day.
Cruiser
Joined: Mar 2013
Posts: 207
Likes: 4
From: Germany
Hi littledragon,
The 660 is a great unit - just don't fully understand your issue, as it comes bundled w/ the power connector, RAM mount, fully confectioned wiring harness, and detailed instructions.
Or, did you buy a naked unit? Even if so, Garmin sells the complete accessories set separately, like if you want to set the unit up for use on two bikes (that's what I did).
In any way, it's easy wrenching, even if you are not too electrically inclined.
The 660 is a great unit - just don't fully understand your issue, as it comes bundled w/ the power connector, RAM mount, fully confectioned wiring harness, and detailed instructions.
Or, did you buy a naked unit? Even if so, Garmin sells the complete accessories set separately, like if you want to set the unit up for use on two bikes (that's what I did).
In any way, it's easy wrenching, even if you are not too electrically inclined.
Last edited by Eisentreiber; May 8, 2014 at 05:35 AM.