Introduction: How to Install a RAM Phone Mount on a Motorcycle

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My commute to work gets a bit boring, so I decided to install a RAM phone mount so I can catch up on my Netflix backlog during my commute. This is how I did it.

Step 1: Things We'll Need.

- RAM base for motorcycle fork stem: http://goo.gl/hzr1Qc

- RAM arm. This one is 2 inches long: http://goo.gl/DjDwjE

- RAM phone cradle. This one works with my Galaxy Note 4: http://goo.gl/1Jx8nt

- 3 mm hex key

- Sharp blade

Step 2: Determine the Size of the Plug You'll Need.

  1. Locate your fork stem tube. Mine has a cap over it that I'll have to remove.
  2. Once you've located the stem tube, and removed any obstructions, fit the plug into the stem tightly, giving it a little twist to seat it fully.
  3. Mark a line around the plug where it meets the top of the stem tube. This will be the top of your plug.
  4. Cut along the line you made.
  5. Measure one inch from the newly established top of your plug and mark a line. This will be the bottom of your plug.
  6. Cut along this line and you'll have your plug.

Step 3: Assemble the RAM Stem Base.

  1. Choose the largest washers (plastic and steel flat) from the set provided that still fit into your stem tube.
  2. Use these washers and assemble in order shown, tightening lightly. The teeth on the plastic washer should face the rubber plug. If you over-tighten, the base will not slide into the stem tube easily. If it is not tight enough, the base will not expand properly. The screw requires a 3 mm hex key to tighten, but you can hand-tighten the assembly at this point.

Step 4: Install the RAM Base

  1. Insert the RAM base with the ball in the position that works best for your final installation. I clocked mine fully to the left so it would place my device centered over the stem. This isn't permanent, so if you don't get it right, you can always adjust it later.
  2. Tighten the base with the 3 mm hex key. You should tighten it until it is difficult to move the base. If it doesn't tighten, remove the base and tighten a little and reinstall.

Step 5: Install the Arm and Device Cradle

  1. At this point, you have the base for a wide variety of options to mount to it. I'm mounting my Galaxy Note 4, so I'm using a Universal X-Grip
  2. Expand the hand-screw on the arm.
  3. Fit one end of the arm over the ball on the stem base.
  4. Fit the other end over the ball on your device cradle.
  5. Tighten the hand-screw enough to allow you to position your device where you want it.
  6. Once you have the position you like, tighten the hand-screw to lock it in.
  7. The cradle and arm can be adjustedandre-positioned as you like now.

Step 6: You're Finished!

Now your device is installed.

Don't watch Netflix on your commute to work. I was just joking and I plan to use this for GPS and as an easy way to communicate when I pull off the road to a safe area. Keep it on two wheels and don't do stupid things.

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