Center Console Started

[aps63]

I didn't like the density of the foam I got, too soft.
I read what another member (protour73) used for his door panels and ordered some of that.
1/8" regular 2-A VOLARA Closed Cell Foam from a compnay called http://www.yourautotrim.com/
Just got it in and it's the perfect density for what I want.



Now I can start covering it. Hopefully tonight.

[aps63]

Got the padding on and the vinyl on.
I shouldn't quit my day job to do upholstery but not bad for a guy who doesn't know what he's doing.
Now I just have to sand and clear the top and cut out the holes for the shifter and cup holders.
More soon I hope.

[ryeguy2006a]

That looks pretty good to me. Not sure about the Camaro's, but a good original Trans Am center console is hard to find.

[aps63]

Thanks ryeguy.
I could have bought a repop, but I have had several of them and they always seem to creak and moan when you lean on them. I wanted something very solid.
Plus I wanted to try and build one myself. Too much free time I guess.

[robertjra]

love it !!!!!!! can we see it in the car??? maybe just a preview?

[aps63]

I'm really trying to finish it up by this weekend.
Just alittle longer and all the pieces should be together.
Should be.

[aps63]

Just when I thought I will be able to finish it up, I hit a snag.
I finished sanding the metal and painted the sections I wanted black.
I cleared it and the clear came out much glossier than I wanted so I had to sand it all off and start again.
Today I cleared it with a matte clear and it came out with just the finish I wanted.
Now I just have to put it together. The end is in sight!!!!!

[aps63]

Well, I cleared it again and all these white dots are appearing all over the bare metal sections.
Read up on clearing bare metal(I know, a little late) seems to be a lot more involved then I thought.
Oh well, another lesson learned. Tryed it one more time.
Same thing happens and it will be painted satin black to match the rest of the interior.
I need to to start other sections of the car and stop messing around with the console.

[SparkyRnD]

still, even with the redo's it looks like it is coming along well. On the metal, did you prime it first? For the size, have you thought about powder coating instead of painting / clearing? Shouldn't be very expensive based on the size.

[aps63]

No I did not prime it. I am new to clearing things.
Is there clear primer?

[Carbo]

Very nice job so far. Just keep the photos coming. I'm in the process of building mine as well ( actually the planning and mock up stages ) and very interested in seeing the finished product. If I screw up (which I'm sure I will), I know I can hire you to build me one...LOL.

[ryfrat]

Looking good I'm looking to start one my self,very help full thread.

[rjsjea]

Nice work...

[67cougnut]

awesome work! this thread is very inspiring!

[Charles]

Its coming along pretty nice, Im working on my own also, first time. Just an idea, have you though about installing a false panel (secret compartment) in your center console glove box?? I put 2 of them in mine. You know, for those times you park your car at a show or unfamiliar street and dont want to carry your wallet,phone or ipod all the time..... just stash it.

[aps63]

Cool idea, but with my luck they would steal the car and then they would have everything.

[Charles]

Put a kill switch in the secret compartment, kill the ignition with it, only you will know its there, then turn it back on when youre ready to go. If youre worried about getting car jacked while youre in the car, get yourself a gun licence and stash your gun in it. Kinda over the top but who know what people will do these days. Hope you never have to use it though.

[Charles]

Here's what I did for mine, the panel in the rear of the box can be pushed open. The magnet holds it closed. once the cover is installed, upholstered and painted you wont see the inner panel or magnet.

[aps63]

Well finally got to the garage today to install the center console.
Not a bad result for my first time welding, metal shaping, and upolstering from scratch.
Would definitly do some things differently but that's for next time.
Love the shifter & bezel.

[rjsjea]

Definately something to be proud of.....