Inexpensive NMEA 2000 compatible GPS

[MattPark]

I want to get an inexpensive Lowrance NMEA 2000 compatible GPS to use with my LMF-400 gauge, which I use for fuel consumption. I already have a Garmin GPS with all the maps (I actually need that one to work correctly when I'm on the water), but I want to be able to hook up a GPS to calculate fuel mileage, range, etc, and Lowrance is the only choice there.

I've searched online but I'm not satisfied with what I've found. Anyone have an idea of what I'm looking for?

[chucks electric]

hello, the lmf 400 is stand alone it can configure data by it's self, unfortunately you will need to duplicate your electronics to get what your after. you'll want a device that will work on a lowrancenet nmea 2000 system. its never a good idea to mix manufactures while using nmea network of any sort. the really bad news is that there is nothing inexpensive. remember to get a display that is large enough to see the data that you need. otherwise the mfd is cluttered and you can't tell what your looking at.
if your having accuracy problems with your garmin either have it fixed or remove it.
the lcx 112c to the lcx 38hd will work, your budget will determine what is right for you. get the largest screen you can and get a mfd that can do as much as possible ie... radar compatible, gps, hd display, easily updated, ect....
your electronics can always stay with you and go to your next boat.
i hope this helps

[MattPark]

I have zero problems with the Garmin. The reason I have it is reliability problems with Lowrance products.

I think I'm just going to throw a speed wheel on it, I always have the other GPS for actual speed.

[StickFish]

Chucks Elc, couldn't he just hang a LGC 2000 on the Lowrancenet he already has between the display and the fuel flow sensor? The GPS pucks are complete GPS receivers not just an antenna - might be worth a call to Lowrance to check it out

[chucks electric]

hello, sorry i must have misunderstood. use an adapter cable to connect the gps antenna to the display gauge.

[MattPark]

I've been looking at a bunch of websites, and the LMF 400 is not listed as compatible with the LGC 2000 on any official literature. I did find a forum where a guy that sounded like he knew what he was talking about suggested it.

I guess I better call Lowrance. That would be nice if it worked.

[chucks electric]

hello, yes thats what i understood. the multi function display is necessary to tie these components together and make the calculations. i misread your post and went off on a tangent lowrance can give you the info you need. unless there is some new stuff out there that i don't know about you will still need to use a mfd to combine your gps to the gauge assembly.

[MattPark]

Just an update, the LGC 2000 is listed in the LMF 400 manual as a suitable GPS reciever for ground speed. That's a blue connector model, and my 400 is a red connector, so I believe I would actually need the LGC 3000. I think I just recieved an older operation manual with mine.