How to Build a Complete RAM® Mount System Step by Step
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Time to read 5 min
A complete RAM® Mount system is usually made from three main parts: a holder for the device, a double socket arm for adjustment and a base for attaching the mount to a vehicle, machine, boat, desk, rail or surface. To build the right setup, choose the device holder first, match the ball size across the components, select the shortest practical arm and choose a base that suits the mounting point.
RAM® Mounts are modular, which is one of the main reasons they are so useful. Instead of buying a one-size-fits-all holder, you can build a mount that suits your phone, tablet, GPS unit, fish finder, scanner, camera or rugged device.
The key is compatibility. The holder, arm and base need to work together. They also need to suit the device weight and the environment where the mount will be used.
Step 1: Identify what you are mounting
Start with the device. Is it a phone, tablet, GPS unit, fish finder, camera, scanner or small screen? The device determines the holder and often influences the ball size.
Check the device dimensions, weight and whether it has a case. A phone in a rugged case or a tablet in a protective shell may be much larger than the device on its own. If you need to charge the device while mounted, check that the holder will not block the charging port.
For shared vehicles or workplaces, think about whether one device will be used every day or whether different users will mount different devices.
Step 2: Choose the right holder
The holder is the part that grips or supports the device. For phones, a RAM® X-Grip® holder is a popular option because it suits a range of phone sizes. For tablets, RAM® Tab-Tite™ or X-Grip® tablet holders may be suitable depending on the device and case.
For fleet or dedicated work setups, a form-fit cradle can be useful when the same device model will be used long-term. For shared vehicles, universal holders may provide more flexibility.
The holder should secure the device without blocking buttons, ports, cameras or charging access.
Step 3: Choose the right ball size
Ball size matters because it affects compatibility and strength. RAM® B Size is commonly used for phones, small GPS units and light devices. RAM® C Size is often used for tablets, rugged devices, larger GPS units and work vehicle setups. RAM® D Size is used for heavier equipment such as larger marine electronics and heavy-duty screens.
All connected components should generally use the same ball size. A B Size holder should use a B Size arm and B Size base. A C Size tablet setup should use a C Size arm and C Size base. Adapters may exist for certain setups, but matching the component size is the cleaner approach for most customers.
Step 4: Choose the arm length
The arm connects the holder to the base and allows the device position to be adjusted. RAM® arms are available in different lengths.
A short arm is usually the most stable option. It keeps the device close to the base and reduces movement. A standard arm gives more positioning flexibility. A long arm gives more reach but can increase vibration and leverage.
For vehicles, machinery, motorcycles, boats and off-road use, choose the shortest arm that still gives a safe viewing position. For desks, counters or lower-vibration environments, a longer arm may be suitable if extra reach is needed.
Step 5: Choose the right base
The base attaches the system to the mounting surface. This could be a windscreen, dashboard, rail, handlebar, flat plate, desk, bench, boat console or machine cab.
Suction cup bases are useful for temporary vehicle setups on smooth surfaces. Tough-Claw™ bases are useful on suitable rails, tubes and bars. Drill-down or AMPS-style bases are useful for permanent installs. Handlebar bases are useful for motorcycles and bikes. Track and rail bases may suit boats and kayaks.
The base should suit the weight of the device and the environment. A heavier device or rougher environment usually needs a stronger, more stable base.
Step 6: Check the mounting location
Before installing, check where the device will sit. It should be easy to see and use, but it should not block visibility, controls, mirrors, airbags, safety equipment or movement.
In work vehicles and machinery, also check entry and exit paths. In boats, check fishing gear, ropes and control areas. In retail or desk setups, check customer access, cable routing and screen angle.
Step 7: Assemble and test the setup
Once the holder, arm and base are selected, assemble the system and test it before relying on it. Tighten the arm enough to hold the device in position. Check that the device can be inserted and removed easily. Confirm that charging cables fit and do not interfere with controls.
If the device moves too much, reduce arm length, choose a stronger base, reposition the mount or consider a larger ball size.
Recommended RAM® Mount products and components
- RAM-HOL-UN7BU RAM® X-Grip® Universal Phone Holder
- RAM-HOL-UN10BU RAM® X-Grip® Large Phone Holder
- RAM® Tab-Tite™ tablet holders for compatible tablets and rugged cases
- RAM® X-Grip® tablet holders where universal tablet fit is required
- RAM-B-201U-A RAM® Short Double Socket Arm for B Size components
- RAM-B-201U RAM® Standard Double Socket Arm for B Size components
- RAM-201U RAM® Standard Double Socket Arm for C Size components
- RAM-B-238U RAM® Diamond Ball Base
- RAM-B-202U RAM® Round Plate with B Size Ball
- RAM-202U RAM® Round Plate with C Size Ball
- RAM® AMPS-compatible plates for fixed installs
Example complete RAM® Mount systems
For a phone in a car or ute, use a RAM® X-Grip® phone holder, B Size short or standard arm and a suction cup or fixed base.
For a tablet in a truck, forklift or farm machine, use a compatible tablet holder, C Size arm and a fixed or clamp-style base.
For a fish finder on a boat, check the device size and weight, then consider C Size or D Size components with a strong base.
For a motorcycle phone setup, use a phone holder, short B Size arm and handlebar or clamp base.
Common mistakes to avoid
Do not choose parts from different ball sizes unless you are intentionally using a compatible adapter. Do not use a long arm when a short arm would work. Do not choose a base that is too light for the device or environment.
Also do not forget the device case. Many fit issues happen because the mount is chosen for the bare device instead of the device with its protective case attached.
Why buy from Mounts Australia?
Mounts Australia makes it easier to build a genuine RAM® Mount system by offering holders, arms, bases and components in one place. Customers can shop by device type, mounting style and use case, then build a setup that suits their vehicle, boat, machine, desk or workspace.
If you are unsure which parts are compatible, Mounts Australia can help you choose a practical combination.
FAQs
What parts do I need for a RAM® Mount system?
Most RAM® Mount systems need a device holder, a double socket arm and a base that suits the mounting surface.
How do I know which RAM® components fit together?
Match the ball size across the holder, arm and base. B Size works with B Size, C Size works with C Size and D Size works with D Size.
What is the most stable RAM® Mount setup?
A short arm with a strong base is usually more stable than a long arm with a temporary base.
Can I build a RAM® Mount for any device?
Many phones, tablets, GPS units, cameras, fish finders and rugged devices can be mounted with RAM® components, provided the holder and setup are suitable.
Final recommendation
Build your RAM® Mount system in this order: device, holder, ball size, arm length and base. Keep the setup compact, match component sizes and choose a base that suits the environment.
Explore Mounts Australia’s RAM® holders, arms, bases and components, or contact the team for help building a complete RAM® Mount setup.