New Console Dash

[Popeye USN]

I'm restoring an old Hurricane Deck boat and installing a new console. And in doing so moving it from the starboard side to centerline so I can put a T-top on it. But that's another story. The console I'm considering buying is blank. I intend to use the gauges from the old console and add some more. Instead of having different colored dash mounts I am thinking of making a dark oak veneer dash with marine varnish that covers the whole front of the console, and then insterting the gauges and wheel. Any body heard or done such a thing? Doesn't sound that hard?

 

[erikgreen]

Re: New Console Dash

It's not, basically you're making a big fiberglass box that'll sit on your deck.

If the shape you want is simple (like an upright box with a slanted top) it'd be easy to make the console box, too, and you'd get just the shape and size you want.

Do a search here for "T top console" or "new console" to get some ideas.

Erik

 

[Popeye USN]

Re: New Console Dash

I'm not making the console. Just the wooden dash that's in the front where you insert the gauges. Like this, but only a lot bigger.

 

[erikgreen]

Re: New Console Dash

Ah, gotcha.

Yes, that's been done a lot too. Check for pics of folks who've built one as part of their full boat restores.

You can also buy surplus gauge clusters like that at places like greatlakesskipper.

If your console is well designed the whole thing pops out in one piece and you can take it out of the boat to work on.

Erik

 

[Popeye USN]

Re: New Console Dash

Uh, this is amazing! Guy built an all wood pontoon!

 

[erikgreen]

Re: New Console Dash

"amazing" isn't the word I'd use... probably more like "insane"

But it's some impressive craftsmanship. I'd love to see an all brass console...

 

[allpoints360]

Re: New Console Dash

Popeye, I maybe working on the same type of project as you. Search Reconfigure Gauges with last 30 days.

I'm not sure if I will use wood for the the gauge cluster, but I think it would look sharp if I did. I may find some other material like plastic or some type of metal. I still haven't decided? But it does make sense to make a removable panel for the gauges.

I will post more pics as I progress. Good luck on yours!