DIY: GPS Mount

Build a GPS mount for your vehicle to make it easy to use while driving.

In decades past, people needed to use maps to help them navigate new places and get to where they were going. Today, drivers have the option of using a GPS, which shows their position and helps them plot a destination. While the majority of GPS systems come with a car mount, it isn't always ideal for many vehicles. When this occurs, you may have to fashion a mount yourself.

Things You'll Need

• Adhesive craft foam
• Scissors
• One 1/2-inch PVC "T" bracket with threaded ends
• One 1/2-inch PVC "L" bracket with threaded end
• One 1/2-inch, 3 foot-long PVC pipe with threaded ends
• Plastic-coated, heavy-duty wire
• PVC pipe cutter

Instructions

1. Locate an open space in the front console panel of your car. For example, you could use a small opening designed to hold change or miscellaneous items.

2. Screw the "L" bracket into the perpendicular joint of the "T" bracket. The open end of the "L" bracket should be pointing up.

3. Measure the distance from the opening to your eye level with the measuring tape. This is the length of the pipe. Cut the 3-foot PVC pipe to match that distance.

4. Screw the PVC pipe to the "L" bracket to form the shaft of the GPS mount.

5. Bend the wire into a holder for the GPS. You may need to experiment with this, given that GPS devices come in varied sizes. The wire should keep the device sturdy. Wrap the ends of the wire around the top of the PVC pipe.

6. Cut the adhesive foam into two 3/4-inch strips. Wrap the strips around the open ends of the "T" bracket. The wrapped strips should be as wide as the opening in the dash where you are placing the mount.

7. Insert the "T" bracket anchor into the opening in the dash.

Tips & Warnings

• Try to use the strongest wire possible. With stronger wire, your GPS has a better chance of staying in place. Use pliers, if needed, to bend a stronger wire

References

• iPhone Hacks: DIY Instructions to Build Custom Car Mount for Your iPhone