Custom Console Build

[BuzzKillian]

I am putting a LS1, Vintage Air, A more modern Stereo (single din), and Autometer gages in my Camaro. That presents a couple problems.
1. Where Do I put the computer?
2. Using the style of Gage I chose... Where do I put all the gages I want?
3. Where does the stereo go?
4. I like VA's 3 knob control... So.. Where t put it?

Here is my solution.
I built a pattern out of wood.

I took dimensions off the stock console, and modified them to meet my needs.



I,m really bad about keeping up with taking pictures through the process, So there are large jumps in progess.
Test fitting the Pattern.

[instro84]

pretty nice, will the final product be wood or glass?

[BuzzKillian]

pretty nice, will the final product be wood or glass?

It is fiberglass. I need to take some pictures of the mold, to keep the thread in order. (coming soon)

[spacepirate]

Wow that is awesome! Keep that mold. I can't wait to see how it comes out and maybe get a copy of that mold.

[wellis77]

With the angles and curves, is this a 1-piece or 2-piece mold?

[BuzzKillian]

The mold is 4 pieces.
I am a Pattern / Tool Maker. I don't work with Fiberglass a lot, so I used a reproduction urethane to make the mold. For me, it was easier to make the loose pieces that way.



Also, with the pieces on the side, I can change the gage area to allow different cofigurations. (double din, possibly)
I could also change the bottom half pretty easily, to fit other applications.

[BuzzKillian]

These are the parts as they come out of the mold.

[spacepirate]

Wow! WOuld you be interested in making another one? I'd love to purchase one from you.

[BuzzKillian]

I was not planning on selling any of these. After I get my car on the road,(about a month I think) I would consider making a couple. I need to look into a more cost efective process.
If I had to pay me for all the time it took to make this.... well, let's just say most people would think I was nuts. Now that I think about it... I am NUTS. The compliments make it seem worth it. Thank You

[eric36]

Looks awesome! I would be interested in one too if you do make a couple to sell.

[BuzzKillian]

After determining where I wanted my gages and VA controls, I cut the openings using a hole saw and an air saw. Dressed up the AC control opening with a die grinder.

Made an Aluminum plate for the Shifter and a Lid with some concealed hinges.



test fit everything.



Then wired the gages.

[BuzzKillian]

I wasn't sure how to mount the computer. The size and shape of the console pretty much made me mount it upside down. I made a mount that would work. Turned up 4 aluminum posts, used structural adhesive to glue them to the floor.

The company I work for, makes all kinds of carpet tools, so we have a nice selection of punches to use. I puched holes in the carpet and it sits nicely over the posts, I screwed the CPU mount over the top of the carpet.

To mount the console, I used #10-24 union nuts (like you can get for connecting 2 threaded rods) welded to the floor. Used the punches again on the carpet. They stick through just enough.

[BuzzKillian]

I used 1/8" x 1" alum. stock, attached to the console with fiberglass reinforced Bondo.

[SRD art]

Looks fantastic, keep the updates coming!

[oldblu68]

Your work is fantastic. I have a 68 Camaro as well. I have tried adapting some other factory style consoles to my car, but have not been able to find just what I like or looking for. Your's is almost exactly what I had in mind. Great work again.

Brian

[wellis77]

That came out beautiful. Nice work.

[crazycarguy22]

Great looking console. If you do decide to make copies I don't think you would have a very hard time selling them.

[Ron.in.SoCal]

Great job Mike. Clean, subtle and custom yet not over done.

[rjsjea]

Nice work for sure...

[BuzzKillian]

Thank all of you for the kind words. We have a great comunity of car guys, that just "get it".