5G docking cradle w/ RAM mount

[cshontz]

I'm probably going to get a RAM mounting cradle and modify it with a Dremel tool to gain access to the 5G docking port.

However, does anyone know of a better 5G docking cradle to use that I might be able to modify to work with RAM mounting hardware?

This is intended to be a utilitarian setup for off-road use in my Jeep. I use the RAM mount for my GPS, and its really great hardware. I'd prefer to use it for my new 5G iPod, but the RAM iPod cradle looks like it leaves a little to be desired.

I'd rather use a cradle that has docking built in, but I'd still like to take advantage of the RAM ball-socket mounting arms.

[en480c4]

I used a RAM mount in my '02 WJ to support my Apple dock. I used the dock mounted directly to the dash of my '04 TJ, but I wanted something a little more elegant in the WJ. The dock is from my 3G 40GB, but I use it with my 60GB video and it works great. I didn't care for the RAM dock either, so I went with what you see below.

http://pics.montypics.com/en480c4/2005-10-21/1129923195_photos_011.jpg

http://pics.montypics.com/en480c4/2005-10-21/1129923259_photos_012.jpg

Here's the TJ for comparison...

http://pics.montypics.com/en480c4/2004-03-09/1078863259_photos_3_3_04_002.jpg

The dock was secure enough for going off road in my Rubicon, and while I have a CJ (with no radio) to wheel in now, I think it would be fine in the WJ on the trails as well.

Good luck.
Ian

[cshontz]

Thanks for the pictures, Ian. That looks like a very clean setup, and I'm going to consider a similar setup.

I ended up buying the RAM iPod cradle just to try it, as it wasn't very expensive - and I am not very happy with how it fits the 5G, as I expected. I'm also considering their universal clamping solution, which actually looks like it might be better. I was rather hoping for something that offered a custom fit, however.

Last time I tried, this forum wouldn't let me post links, so you might have to cut, paste, replace the commas with periods, and add forward slashes where the spaces are:

static, flickr, com 40 83543285_5b3244b53d_b, jpg

static, flickr, com 38 83543372_99ff8df319_b, jpg

static, flickr, com 42 83543715_f888eaf55d_b, jpg

Here's the lot.

www, flickr, com photos cshontz sets 1784679

Not only does the RAM cradle cover the docking connector, but it also almost obscures the mini-jack too!

- Chris

PS: The inability to post URLs or pictures is a security measure that I'm not particular fond of. Sharing pictures on forums is what I do. AAARRGGJHHH!!!! :(

[en480c4]

When I used my iSkin, I had a clamping cel mount in place of the Apple dock because of the obvious fitting issues of a skinned iPod fitting in the dock. That was mounted directly to the dash, as well. Here's the only pic I have that shows it clearly...

http://www.pbase.com/n_maher/image/33510434.jpg

I'd suggest using a SIK Din if you're going to use the RAM cradle... that way you get power and line out through the one connection at the bottom, with less hassles when getting in or out.