Kenwood TM-D700 adapter for DMM

So I installed my DMM from Taco Garage. I *really* like the install. It's so nice and clean.

What I didn't like was the RAM arm pushing the control head out from the dash and the small bounce I had when I'd hit a bump. So I decided to make my own adapter. Loaded up solidworks and had a basic idea thereafter. I printed the parts w/ my 3D printer to test out the fit before making the next revision. I reused the screw/collar from one of the RAM balls I ordered with the DMM. I'll stick with the 4th revision printed part (the picture with the penny) for a few days to make sure I'm happy with it. I live in Texas, that part ain't gonna last long! My plans are to have my final one made out of aluminum.

So far, I'm pretty happy with the outcome! Not too bad for a radio that's been installed in 5 of my vehicles...the metal part of the mount was pretty mangled.

 

Nice, a company called lido makes adapter with ball ends that attach different ways. I saw something on YT showing how to mount a Yaesu FTM-300

 

Yea, I think you're talking about lidoradio.com. I eyeballed them and didn't see what I wanted. My main thing was to get rid of the RAM ball and move the radio head closer into the dash.

I have nothing against RAM...been using those mounts for almost 20 years, just wanted something different this time. Given the DMM mount is only held on by the plastic clips for that trim piece (and knowing I'll toss a bunch more up on the DMM later) limiting the bounce and head movement when I push buttons seemed good to me!

 

Looking closer at your configuration that 2 face tape attaching the head to the black bracket won't last long either. What are the 2 3x6 holes for will you eventually pick those up.

 

haha. the original mount came with foam there, I didn't have any foam so I used foam tape to make it fill the gap and stop vibrations a bit better (a stop gap). Not really using it for the sticky though. Look at the 3rd pick and you'll see the metal and plastic interlock on the back. that is what is actually holding the head.

The 3x6 holes are just another point Kenwood offered for direct mount. I used that in my last car when I had it hidden in the sunglasses holder above the rearview mirror. Won't make that mistake again!

 

Sad nothing like this for 2gen.

 

What do you mean? the DMM for the 2nd gen taco? or this particular adapter I'm making? I'll likely throw it up on thingiverse when I'm happy with it. I think the angles are all different between 2nd and 3rd gen, tho...

 

2nd Gen Tacoma does not have those holes around the radio surround

 

N4BSH here,

I think I have gained some wisdom in my older age as I don't have the urge to drill a hole in my Taco's roof and add an antenna like I did with my brand new Chevy Silverado 4x4 I had 15 years ago lol.

Love the

$63 TM-700 1"-2" Adjustable Tube Mount

TM-700 APRS radio, Kenwood makes great Ham stuff.

=)

 

NM i see it on Taco Garage...

 

It's been a workhorse for many years. Yep, I like the TM-D700 as well. Don't do much w/ APRS on it, but it's been a great dual transceiver!

...and I'm in agreement on tossing an antenna on the roof. Not sure how I'm gonna mount the antenna in the end, have lots of options, but we'll see. I'm *not* gonna put it on the roof. I know it's the best ground plane for an antenna, but... =)

 

Did you print this in PLA? How's it holding up in the truck?

 

Did you ever put the plans up on thingiverse? I am using the DMM with a ball mount, but i'd like to try your part too.