Garmin GPSMAP 4008 Installation Manual

The Garmin GPSMAP 4008 is a high-performance marine chartplotter featuring an 8-inch sunlight-readable display, built-in worldwide basemap, support for BlueChart g2 and g2 Vision cartography, NMEA 2000 and NMEA 0183 connectivity, internal GPS antenna, sonar capability (with compatible transducer), and rugged, waterproof design (IPX7). This manual covers essential information for safe installation, initial setup, configuration, and basic operation.

Features at a Glance

Key components: GPSMAP 4008 display unit, Power/NMEA 2000 cable, Mounting hardware, Protective cover, Documentation.

Installation Planning

Before mounting, plan the location considering visibility, accessibility, and cable routing.

1. Location: Choose a flat, sturdy surface within clear view of the helm. Ensure it does not obstruct operator's view.
2. Viewing Angle: Mount so the screen is easily readable and protected from direct spray where possible.
3. Cable Access: Ensure path for cables to power source and other devices (NMEA network, transducer).
4. GPS Reception: Avoid mounting directly under metal structures or thick fiberglass that may block GPS signals.

WARNING! Installation should be performed by a qualified marine technician. Ensure the vessel's electrical system is OFF during installation.

Mounting the Unit

Use the included bracket and hardware to secure the unit.

1. Position the mounting bracket at the chosen location. Mark the four screw holes.
2. Drill pilot holes appropriate for your mounting surface (fiberglass, wood, metal).
3. Secure the bracket using the provided screws and appropriate sealant to prevent water ingress.
4. Attach the GPSMAP 4008 unit to the bracket by aligning the tabs and tightening the locking knob.
5. Adjust the tilt angle as needed and secure.

CAUTION! Do not overtighten screws. Use marine-grade sealant around holes in exposed locations.

Electrical Connections

• Power Cable: The combined power/NMEA 2000 cable has red (power +), black (power - / ground), and bare wire (shield/ground) connections.
• Procedure:
  1. Connect the RED wire to a switched 12/24 Vdc positive terminal via an appropriate fuse (recommended 3 A).
  2. Connect the BLACK wire to the vessel's negative/ground terminal.
  3. Connect the bare shield wire to the vessel's RF ground point if available.
  4. Secure all connections with crimp connectors and protect with heat-shrink tubing.

Tip: Install an inline fuse as close to the power source as possible.

NMEA Network Connection

The unit can connect to a NMEA 2000 network for sharing data (GPS, depth, engine data) and to NMEA 0183 devices.

1. NMEA 2000: The power cable includes a DeviceNet (Micro-C) connector. Plug this into an available T-connector on your vessel's NMEA 2000 backbone. Ensure the backbone is properly terminated and powered.
2. NMEA 0183: Requires an optional Garmin NMEA 0183 data cable. Connect the TX/RX wires to compatible devices (e.g., VHF radio, autopilot) following the device-specific wiring diagrams.

WARNING! Ensure NMEA 2000 network power is off when connecting/disconnecting devices.

Transducer Connection (Optional)

To use sonar features, connect a compatible Garmin transducer or sonar module.

1. Route the transducer cable from the transom or through-hull location to the helm, avoiding sharp bends and engine interference.
2. Connect the transducer cable to the appropriate port on the rear of the GPSMAP 4008 unit.
3. Secure the cable with cable ties and seal any hull penetrations with marine sealant.

CAUTION! Transducer installation is critical for performance. Refer to the transducer's specific installation manual.

Initial Power-On & Setup

After connections are secure, power on the vessel's electrical system and then the chartplotter.

1. Press and hold the POWER button on the front panel until the unit beeps and the Garmin logo appears.
2. Follow the on-screen prompts to set language, units (nautical/statute), time, and date.
3. The unit will begin searching for GPS signals. Move to an open area if indoors. Initial fix may take several minutes.
4. Insert a pre-programmed BlueChart microSD card (if using) into the card slot.

Note: Keep the unit powered and with a clear sky view for the first GPS acquisition.

Basic Configuration

Access the main menu by pressing the PAGE or MENU button.

Key Settings: System: Set backlight level, sounds, display mode (Day/Night). Navigation: Configure map orientation (North Up, Course Up), waypoint alarms. Sonar: If connected, set frequency, range, and sensitivity. Communications: Configure NMEA 2000 and NMEA 0183 data sources and sentences. Network: Set up Ethernet connections for Garmin radar or additional displays.

Use the rocker keypad to navigate menus and make selections.

Care & Maintenance

Unplug power before cleaning. Use a soft, damp cloth with fresh water only. Do not use harsh chemicals, solvents, or abrasive cleaners.

CAUTION! Ensure the protective cover is in place when the unit is not in use for extended periods. Do not expose to petroleum-based products.

Regulatory Information

This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the condition that this device does not cause harmful interference. This device meets applicable Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada licence-exempt RSS standard(s). Contains license-exempt transmitter(s)/receiver(s) that comply with Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada's licence-exempt RSS(s).

For technical support, visit www.garmin.com/support or contact Garmin Product Support.

Troubleshooting

Reset: To perform a master reset, hold PAGE + POWER while powering on (note: this erases all user data and settings).

Service: Contact Garmin Product Support or an authorized Garmin dealer.