6 Best Ram Mount Arms For Modular Accessory Setups For Rigs

A disorganized dashboard on a bumpy forest service road quickly turns a navigational asset into a distracting hazard. Selecting the right mounting hardware ensures that critical tech stays within reach and in clear view without obstructing the path ahead. Mastering these modular configurations transforms the cockpit of a rig into a reliable command center for any expedition.

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RAM-B-201U Medium Arm: Best Overall Mount

The RAM-B-201U medium arm stands as the industry standard for most vehicle-based navigation setups. At 3.69 inches in length, it offers the perfect balance of leverage and compactness for smartphones or compact GPS units. Its versatility allows for a clean install that minimizes “bounce” while remaining flexible enough for fine-tuned viewing angles.

Choose this arm when your primary goal is day-to-day usability without overcomplicating the dashboard layout. It is the ideal choice for those who need to shift their device slightly toward the passenger or driver without recalibrating the entire mount. For standard overland rigs and daily commuters, this is almost always the correct starting point.

RAM-C-201U-D Long Arm: Best for Heavy Gear

When the setup requires holding a full-sized tablet or a heavier dedicated off-road navigation monitor, the RAM-C-201U-D long arm is the essential choice. Measuring over 9 inches, this component provides the extra reach necessary to bridge larger gaps between the mounting base and the desired viewing position. Its design prioritizes stability for heavier mass, ensuring the device doesn’t droop under its own weight during technical maneuvers.

This arm is specifically intended for users running larger, 10-inch or 12-inch tablets in specialized mounts. While it requires more clearance space, the additional length is non-negotiable for high-end digital cartography rigs. Avoid this if space is at a premium, but rely on it if your display setup demands structural reach.

RAM-B-201U-A Short Arm: Best Low Profile

In tight cockpit environments where every inch counts, the RAM-B-201U-A short arm keeps the device as close to the mounting point as possible. By reducing the distance between the two balls, this arm significantly limits the potential for vibration and leverage-induced shifting. It is the ultimate choice for minimalist builds where visibility over the dashboard is a primary safety concern.

This short arm excels in cramped side-by-side (UTV) cabins or vehicles with steeply raked windshields where a standard arm would collide with the glass. While it sacrifices some adjustability, the gains in stability and tight positioning are unmatched. For riders who prioritize a streamlined, unobtrusive cockpit, this is the definitive answer.

RAM-201U Standard C Arm: Top Mid-Size Pick

The RAM-201U C-size arm serves as the heavy-duty counterpart to the lighter B-size ecosystem. Featuring a 1.5-inch ball diameter, it offers significantly increased surface area to grip, which translates to superior locking power for heavier equipment. It effectively bridges the gap between lightweight phones and massive industrial-grade displays.

Opt for this arm if the vehicle encounters high-frequency vibrations from washboard roads or corrugated trails. The additional surface area prevents the mount from slipping even when navigating aggressive, high-speed terrain. For those building a long-term, ruggedized rig, starting with the C-size ecosystem is a smart investment in future-proofing.

RAM-D-201U Heavy Duty: Best for Large Tech

For the serious expedition vehicle where heavy, vibration-sensitive equipment is non-negotiable, the RAM-D-201U is the pinnacle of the line. Designed for a 2.25-inch ball system, this arm is built for extreme stability and maximum torque retention. It effectively eliminates any play or movement, providing a rock-solid platform for large monitors or specialized communication hardware.

This is not a general-purpose mount; it is a specialized tool for heavy-duty applications that would overwhelm smaller arms. If the goal is to secure equipment that must remain perfectly still despite heavy off-road impact, this is the only logical selection. For most casual adventurers, it is overkill, but for the serious overlander, it provides necessary peace of mind.

RAP-B-200-2U Swivel Arm: Best Adjustability

The RAP-B-200-2U swivel arm introduces a crucial pivot point that standard fixed-length arms lack. By allowing the device to rotate or swing independently of the mounting base, it enables quick adjustments between driver and passenger viewing. This flexibility is particularly useful in multi-driver scenarios where different heights and seating positions require rapid recalibration of the display.

While the swivel mechanism adds a small amount of complexity, it offers unmatched convenience for social trips and complex navigation tasks. It is best used for lightweight devices like small GPS units or action cameras. If the rig needs to adapt to different users throughout a trip, the added dexterity of this arm is invaluable.

How to Choose the Right Ball Size for Rigs

• B-Size (1-inch): Suitable for phones, compact GPS, and lightweight action cameras; ideal for standard road and light trail use.
• C-Size (1.5-inch): Required for tablets, full-sized GPS, and setups that face heavy off-road vibration or washboard sections.
• D-Size (2.25-inch): Reserved for heavy monitors, industrial communication devices, or rigs where absolute rigidity is the only priority.

Selecting the correct ball size dictates the entire structural integrity of the mount. Undersizing a mount for a heavy device leads to constant drooping, while oversizing creates unnecessary bulk and weight. Always match the ball size to the heaviest potential device intended for that specific mount location.

Managing Weight and Off-Road Trail Vibration

Vibration is the enemy of any mounting system, turning small bumps into significant stress points. To combat this, keep the arm length as short as possible to minimize the lever effect. When selecting components, prioritize mounts that incorporate vibration dampening features or rubberized surfaces to absorb trail shock.

Distributing weight effectively is also vital for the longevity of the mount and the dash surface. Avoid mounting heavy tablets on thin plastic trim pieces, as the combined weight and vibration will eventually cause fatigue or structural failure. Instead, anchor the mount to metal dashboard crossbars or reinforced chassis points whenever possible.

Placement Strategies for Modular Dashboards

Strategic placement keeps the screen in the peripheral vision without obstructing the windshield. For navigation, place the device slightly below the driver’s line of sight to allow for quick glances without taking eyes off the trail. Avoid placing mounts in the deployment path of airbags, as this creates a critical safety hazard.

Test the ergonomics of the placement while sitting in the driver’s seat in a static environment. Ensure that reaching for the device does not require an awkward stretch that shifts weight or causes the driver to lose focus on the path. A well-planned modular dashboard should feel like a natural extension of the driver’s workspace.

Maintaining Your RAM Mounts for Longevity

Rubber ball components require periodic cleaning to maintain the friction necessary for a secure hold. Over time, road dust and fine grit can coat the surfaces, reducing grip and causing the arm to slip under pressure. Wipe these surfaces down with a damp cloth every few months to ensure the rubber remains tacky and effective.

Check the tightening knobs after heavy off-road excursions to ensure vibration hasn’t loosened the tension. While the modular system is designed to be permanent, a quick inspection before long trips prevents mid-trail headaches. Properly maintained mounts provide years of reliable service even in the most demanding outdoor environments.

A well-configured mount setup is often the difference between a frustrating trip and a seamless navigation experience. Take the time to align the hardware with the specific needs of the terrain, and the equipment will provide years of reliable service. Now that the cockpit is properly dialed in, it is time to turn the key and find the next trailhead.