RV GPS Reception Issues?

jimgossett2 · 04-04-2022, 02:23 PM

I have an 2014 Access Premier with the Rand McNally Infotainment Center. I didn't care for how that operated and prefer loading our trip stops at my home desk before departing. I purchased a Garmin RV_770 and really like it. Last summer, however, I had trouble with satellite reception on both. I don't know it that was due to all the smoke in the air last summer or something else. The problem occurred in MO, IA, MN, IL, IN, OH, PA and NY.

Did anyone have similar issues? If I decide to purchase a new GPS, would you have any recommendations?

thompwil · 04-05-2022, 04:58 AM

Howdy,

Is there a jack for an external GPS antenna on your Garmin?

Just a guess, but maybe the bunk overhang caused some of the problems with the satellite reception. Garmin has a few external antennas on their site, need to check for compatibility though. Again, just a guess...

GaryKowal1 · 04-05-2022, 05:28 AM

I have had the same unit for past three years. Mounted to of windshield in class C and the cab
over bed is full of storage items. I have gps signal virtually always.

**Eagle5** · 04-05-2022, 04:50 PM

Hi Jim,
As the 770 is a bigger viewing screen, I suspect that your GPS is mounted higher-up on the windshield, thus blocking its view to the sky. I mount my Garmin on the passenger side, as far down on the window as I can get it. The right-hand side of the dash does allow a further down (or further forward) mounting location. This gives your GPS the best sky view for reception.
Eagle5

jimgossett2 · 04-06-2022, 07:53 AM

Unfortunately there is not a way to connect an antenna.

jimgossett2 · 04-06-2022, 07:54 AM

I have had it on the dash. I'll try to windshield.

**Eagle5** · 04-06-2022, 10:15 AM

Hi Jim,
I am sure it will work well in the further forward position. The GPS signals go through glass and canvas, but cannot go through metal. Fiberglass and wood both impede the satellite signals.
Of course, as this must all be field-tested, it also is yet another great excuse to go camping!
Thanks, Eagle5

jimgossett2 · 04-06-2022, 03:52 PM

I'll be on the road Sunday!

Brooks · 04-10-2022, 06:18 PM

I have a RM and have to reset often to get GPS it is mounted on the dash

jimgossett2 · 04-10-2022, 07:55 PM

I like the garmin much better!!

71_340 · 04-11-2022, 10:15 AM

I used a Garmin 770 in our Class C and Class A, mounted to the dash in both RVs and both had front overhead bunks. Never had a single GPS signal outage....I live in Missouri.

The next time that happens scroll through the screens as there is one which shows yiu the signal strength and how many satellites you are receiving.